Adolescent Development Week 6

Family systems approach

A theoretical framework that views the family as an interconnected and interdependent system, where changes in one member affect the entire unit.

Dyadic relationships

Two-person interactions within the family that influence and are influenced by broader family dynamics.

Polyadic subsystems

Larger family groupings that encompass multiple dyadic relationships, reflecting the complex interrelations within the family system.

Disequilibrium

A temporary state of imbalance in the family system triggered by developmental transitions, leading to renegotiation of roles and boundaries.

Authoritative parenting

A style characterized by high responsiveness and high demandingness, associated with positive adolescent outcomes.

Authoritarian parenting

A style that is high in demandingness but low in responsiveness, linked to lower self-esteem and greater anxiety in adolescents.

Permissive parenting

A parenting style that is highly responsive but low in demandingness, associated with impulsivity and poor self-regulation.

Neglectful parenting

A parenting style that is low in both responsiveness and demandingness, linked to poorer emotional and academic outcomes.

Reciprocal Influence

• Parents do not always adhere strictly to one style in every context

• Adolescents can influence parenting through reciprocal socialisation

Nevertheless, the dominant parenting style tends to set the tone for how adolescents:

• Navigate autonomy and independence

• Build relationships

• Develop a sense of self and identity

Secure attachment

An attachment style characterized by a balance between emotional closeness and independence.

associated with:

• Better emotional regulation

• Greater social competence

• Lower levels of internalising problems such as anxiety and depression

Insecure attachment

An attachment style marked by avoidance or anxiety, which can hinder emotional regulation and identity development.

Parent–adolescent conflict

Increases during early adolescence as adolescents seek autonomy, often focusing on personal domain issues.

associated with:

• Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and behavioural problems

• Greater secrecy and reduced parental disclosure

• Lower levels of closeness

Culture and Conflict

Western cultures often view conflict as normal and autonomy-affirming, while collectivist cultures emphasise harmony and indirect conflict resolution.

Emerging adulthood

A developmental stage (ages 18–25) where parent–child relationships often become more egalitarian and marked by mutual respect.

Parental scaffolding

Continued emotional and financial support during emerging adulthood that fosters autonomy and can positively impact identity development and adjustment

Sibling relationships

Emotionally intense and dynamic connections that serve various roles, such as companions, rivals, and role models, evolving throughout adolescence.

Conflict and Differentiation

• Constructive disagreement can promote the development of negotiation and conflict resolution skills

• the process of establishing distinct roles and identities within the family—can reduce rivalry and support individuality

Influences on Sibling Dynamics

• Birth order: Firstborns often assume leadership or responsibility; later-borns tend to model older siblings' behaviour

• Gender composition: Sisters typically report greater closeness and communication than brothers, especially in same-gender pairs (Buhrmester & Furman, 1990)

• Age spacing: Affects the nature and intensity of sibling interactions

Spillover effects

When sibling relationship quality impacts other developmental areas such as self-esteem, peer relationships, and risk-taking behaviour.

Family diversity

The wide range of family structures today, including single-parent, same-gender parent, stepfamilies, and multicultural households.

Impact of Globalisation and Technology

• Digital tools (e.g., texting, video calls) help maintain family connections across distance

While increased screen time may reduce some face-to-face interactions, technology also enables:

• Ongoing communication (e.g., co-parenting across households)

• Sibling and family bonding across locations

Bicultural and immigrant families

often face intergenerational acculturation gaps that can lead to conflict, though strong family cohesion and cultural pride can buffer negative effects

Family processes

Factors such as warmth, communication, and monitoring that are more important for adolescent outcomes than family structure.