Development of a model describing individuated adult child–parent relationships

Abstract

This study investigates age-related changes and dyadic-specific differences in adult child–parent relationships. Using an individuation framework, two German samples of 224 and 105 participants aged between 21 and 47 years were administered the Network of Relationships Inventory, the Emotional Autonomy Scale and the Authority Reciprocity Questionnaire. Factor analyses resulted in a measurement model valid for adult children, their mothers and fathers. The model includes connectedness (with emotional and cognitive aspects) as well as individuality (assessed as power symmetry). Connectedness decreased with age. Symmetry in father–child relationships increased over time, while mother–child relationships were perceived to be symmetrical by early adulthood. Child–mother relationships were more connected than child–father relationships. Sons described themselves as more powerful than did daughters.