Don't know the proper place for this question, but what is a good definition of Mother Hen Syndrome?

I think someone that cares for others in an over-protective way. Not necessarily a woman or a mother, however. This behavior can be irritating and unwanted.
Sometimes the person that's doing this, sees their approach as being in the best interests of someone they care about, but unfortunately the recipient sees it as controlling. It can be a no-win situation for both parties.

I asked the question because someone has used the expression in what I consider the wrong way.

I thank you for the prompt reply.

You're welcome, ccfwbird. How did they misuse the expression?

Since you asked.

There was nothing verbal, it was all in writing, and it is difficult for me to explain.

A person was writing about one group of people that had become divided into two smaller groups, and about the written interaction between the smaller groups.
The writer, from Group B, felt that conversation in group A was uncalled-for condemnation of the conversation of group B.
The writer also believed that condemnation caused arguments and jealousies between the groups.

The writer wrote: "Its all about the Mother Hen Syndrome, the politics of control and follow the leader.

My thought is that Mother Hen Syndrome would have to do with guidance, instruction, leadership and protection as you would see in a family, or in a chicken yard; not opinions, politics or follow the leader.

A modern version of the idea is 'helicopter parent'.

quote:

Originally posted by ccfwbird:
My thought is that Mother Hen Syndrome would have to do with guidance, instruction, leadership and protection as you would see in a family, or in a chicken yard; not opinions, politics or follow the leader.

And I think you are right. The term 'mother hen' tends to refer to a more personal situation. I haven't seen it used in a political scenario.

Interesting link, NNN. I saw shades of my own behavior there, when my children were much younger.