Parent–Child Relationship

Abstract

This article considers characteristics and processes of parent–child relationships during the many changes that take place during adolescence. Evidence suggests that the content and quality of parent–child relationships, rather than the action of either parents or children alone, determines the nature and extent of family influence on child development. This article is divided into five sections. First, we consider theoretical accounts of how adolescent development may impact parent–child relationships. Second, we consider how parent–child relationships may influence adolescent development. Third, we consider how parent–child closeness may impact the developmental course of parent–child relationships and individual differences in these trajectories. Fourth, we consider how parent–child conflict may impact the same developmental trends and individual differences. Finally, we consider how varying forms of parent–child closeness and parent–child conflict may impact adolescent outcomes over time. In each of these areas, special attention will be given to the role of social, cultural, and contextual factors surrounding parent–child relationships.