Conflict resolution in parent-adolescent relationships and adolescent delinquency

M.D. van Doorn, S.J.T. Branje, W.H.J. Meeus

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

This study examines the relation between conflict resolution styles in parent-adolescent relationships and adolescent delinquency. Questionnaires about conflict resolution styles were completed by 284 early adolescents (mean age 13.3) and their parents. Adolescents also completed a questionnaire on delinquency. Hierarchical regression analyses show that combinations of adolescents' and parents' conflict resolution styles are significantly related to delinquency. In adolescent-father relationships, the demand-withdraw pattern was found to be related to delinquency, and in adolescent-mother relationships the interaction characterized by mutual hostility was found to be related to delinquency. The results stress the interdependence of adolescents and parents in conflict resolution and demonstrate the need for investigating combinations of adolescents' and parents' conflict resolution styles.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)503-527
Number of pages25
JournalJournal of Early Adolescence
Volume28
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2008

Keywords

  • adolescence
  • parent-adolescent conflict
  • conflict resolution
  • delinquency
  • demand-withdraw

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