PARENT ADOLESCENT COMMUNICATION PATTERNS AND THEIR IMPACT ON EMOTIONAL REGULATION AND BEHAVIORAL OUTCOMES

Abstract

Background: The adolescent years are a time of development in which there are emotional changes and behavioral changes. Parent–adolescent communication is a key factor in the development of emotional regulation and behavioral outcomes. Positive communication contributes to the psychological health and wellbeing, and negative communication can lead to psychological instability and inappropriate behavior. There is limited evidence of this relationship in Pakistan, indicating the need to investigate this in local contexts. The primary objectives were To assess the communication patterns between parents and adolescents and how these communication patterns influence their emotional control and behavior in selected schools and community context of Hyderabad, Sindh.

Methodology: The method of the research was descriptive cross-sectional study that involved 238 adolescents aged 12 – 18 years with non-probability convenience sampling method. Standardized questionnaires were used to gather data on communication patterns, emotional regulation, and behavioral outcomes. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 23 with p < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: There was a strong positive relationship between supportive parent–adolescent communication and emotional regulation. High levels of positive communication were also strongly correlated with better behavioral outcomes as well as fewer behavioral problems.

Summary: Parent–adolescent communication has a significant impact on the emotional and behavioral development of adolescents. Strategies for improving family communication, such as educational and counseling, can impact mental health outcomes.