Parent–Adolescent Relationships in the Context of Interpersonal Disagreements

Abstract

The paper is based on a study that aims to understand adolescent–parent relationships in the context of interpersonal disagreements. The issue of disagreements or disputes between parents and adolescents is of interest because of its relevance to understanding universal versus culturally variable features of adolescent development and parent–adolescent relationships. The study focused on understanding the dynamics of dispute resolution in Indian families, particularly the strategies of resolution and the patterns of reasoning involved in the same. A sample of 60 adolescents and their parents from nuclear, Hindu, upper middle class urban families was interviewed to examine their understanding of adolescence, perceptions of mutual expectations, and views on resolving two hypothetical disagreements on marriage partner selection and heterosexual relationships. The findings revealed little acknowledgement of adolescence as a clearly demarcated stage of development. In general, both adolescents and parents had positive perceptions of themselves as adolescents and parents of adolescents. Resolution of disagreements included the active involvement of all parties. Mutual accommodation was the most commonly used strategy for resolving disagreements. Adolescents endorsed resolutions favouring compromise with parents, based on the reasoning that parents had the welfare of their children in mind. Parents on their part adopted an open–minded attitude toward the adolescents’ activities and allowed them space to articulate their own views. A primary motivation to sustain the values of family interdependence and harmony was clearly reflected in the sample.