Adolescent Family Conflict as a Predictor of Relationship Quality in Emerging Adulthood. Issue 5 (16th September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Heinze, Justin E.; Hsieh, Hsing‐Fang; Aiyer, Sophie M.; Buu, Anne; Zimmerman, Marc A.
• Is Part Of: Family relations. Volume 69:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 996
• Page End: 1011
• Publication Date: 2020-09-16
• Subjects: emerging adulthood -- family conflict -- relationships -- resilience; Families -- Periodicals; Family life education -- Periodicals; Family social work -- Periodicals; 306.85
• DOI: 10.1111/fare.12493
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0197-6664

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: This research examines the influence of adolescent family conflict on relationship quality in early and later emerging adulthood, while considering the interpersonal resources that protect youth against the intergenerational transmission of negative relationship quality. Background: Family conflict during adolescence can impede the development of skills needed to maintain future productive interpersonal relationships. Positive peer and romantic relationships in emerging adulthood may buffer the negative ramifications of earlier family conflict. Method: A longitudinal design was used to follow a sample of 850 at‐risk adolescents (50% female, 50% male) who were predominantly (80%) African American. Binary logistic and ordinary least‐squares regressions were run to test hypotheses. Results: Adolescents who reported higher levels of family conflict in adolescence were less likely to report closeness or support from both their parents and spouses or partners during both early and late emerging adulthood. These adolescents also reported higher levels of perceived daily stressors. Positive relationships in emerging adulthood did not affect the relationship between family conflict and later relationship outcomes. Conclusion: Family conflict in adolescence is associated with unhealthy relationship patterns in emerging adulthood. Implications: Adolescents from high‐conflict homes are unlikely to learn adaptive relationship strategies through natural maturation or exposure to positive interpersonal relationships in emerging adulthood. Direct intervention (e.g., conflict resolution skills) in emerging adulthood should be explored.