Parent–child conflict and adolescent health literacy in Mexico: Results from a nationwide dyad study in Mexico

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research suggests that health literacy (HL) is critical in preventing and managing health problems. However, over half of adults in Mexico report having inadequate health literacy. Research suggests the parent–child relationship can be a key predictor of developmental competencies; however, little research has examined how dyadic family interactions relate to HL. This study examined whether parent–child relationship conflict was associated with adolescent health literacy among families living in Mexico. Data from a parent–child dyads in Mexico were gathered using online surveys (N = 746, 373 parent–child dyads). Our findings suggested that child-reported family conflict–but not parent-reported family conflict – was associated with lower adolescent health literacy. Researchers and practitioners should consider how parent–child conflict may impact adolescent health outcomes, and prioritise child reports in data collection.