The relationships between parental educational practices, pro-aggression beliefs, and aggressive behavior: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Adolescent aggression poses a significant challenge to public health and societal well-being, with detrimental consequences for individuals and communities worldwide. Understanding the factors contributing to aggressive behavior during adolescence is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies. Parental influences, including parenting practices and beliefs, have been identified as key determinants of adolescent aggression. However, the mechanisms through which parental factors impact adolescent aggression, particularly the mediating role of cognitive factors such as pro-aggression beliefs, remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the associations between parental educational practices, pro-aggression beliefs, and aggressive behavior among middle school students, with a focus on understanding the mediating role of cognitive factors. A sample of 532 middle school students participated in the study and provided self-reported data on parental educational practices, pro-aggression beliefs, and aggressive behavior. The results revealed significant associations between parental educational practices, pro-aggression beliefs, and aggressive behavior. Furthermore, pro-aggression beliefs were found to partially mediate the relationship between parental educational practices and aggressive behavior. These findings underscore the importance of considering both familial and cognitive processes in understanding adolescent aggression. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between parental factors, cognitive factors, and adolescent aggression, informing the development of targeted intervention programs aimed at promoting positive youth development and reducing violence. By addressing these factors, interventions can effectively mitigate the risk of aggressive behavior among adolescents, ultimately fostering healthier developmental trajectories and enhancing societal well-being.