Parent-Adolescent Conflict

Abstract

Parent-child conflict is a hallmark feature of the adolescent years. In this chapter, we synthesize findings from approximately the last 15years of research on parent-adolescent conflict. We first describe the developmental patterns and individual differences in parent-adolescent conflict to illustrate how parent-adolescent conflict coincides with important developmental changes (e.g., cognitive maturation) during adolescence and varies according to important individual characteristics such as gender and culture. Next, we underscore the implications of parent-adolescent conflict on adolescent adjustment and family functioning and examine the contexts in which conflict can be problematic or constructive. Given the continual interest in this growing field of research on family relationships, we provide a review on the various research methodologies that are best suited to investigate the complex dynamics of parent-adolescent conflict. Finally, we offer insight on evidence-based family-centered interventions that promote healthy family dynamics.