Protective functions of parent-adolescent relationships in youth mental health outcomes

This study aims to evaluate the role of connectedness and hostility in parent-adolescent relationships and how these constructs relate to adolescent mental illness (i.e. anxiety and conduct disorders) and adolescent functioning (i.e. positive development, emotional difficulties, oppositional defiant behaviour, and antisocial behaviour).

The study involves multi-method assessment, including observations of parent-adolescent interactions, video-mediated recall of relationship-related attributions and cognitions, and questionnaire measures. We will also evaluate whether participation in a brief parenting intervention affects parent-adolescent relationships and how this impacts adolescent behaviour and functioning.

Findings from the study will contribute to a new conceptual framework for understanding parent-adolescent relationships and their impact on adolescent mental health outcomes.