The Meaning of Parent-Child Closeness in The Digital Era

Abstract

Background: The advancement of technology information in the digital era brings changes that affect parent-child relationship. Closeness with parents is considered an important thing that can help children dealing with conflict, life problems, and delinquent behaviors. Study aims: To describe the meaning of closeness between parent-child in the digital era. The research question are what the meaning of closeness to parents from children’s perspective who grew up in the digital era? Method: This research used a qualitative descriptive research approach and was analyzed by content analysis. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling with subjects with the inclusive criteria The number of participants collected was 1256 students. Then, it was filtered into 1216 students who fit to the inclusive criteria. Data was collected by distributing an e-questionnaire instrument consisting of one closed and one open question. Result: The study found 9 themes about the meaning of parent-children closeness namely: establishing communication, guiding, building harmonization, providing comfort, love and affection, being a support system, a source of happiness, something valuable, and admiring parent’s character Conclusion: Research findings recommended as aspects in fostering closeness between parents and their children who grow up exposed to information technology in the digital era.