Adolescents perception on parent child conflict and its resolution: A qualitative study

Abstract

Adolescent period is marked by strain in relationship and misunderstanding with parents. Understanding perception of adolescents about this issue is necessary for conflict resolution. The current study is aimed at exploring adolescent perception on nature of parent child conflict and the strategies for resolving such problems. A qualitative study was conducted among 150 (60 females & 90 males) college students in late adolescence period. Three colleges were conveniently selected in Kathmandu. Semi-structured questions were asked to the participant adolescents. They were asked to list on common issues or problems with their parents and type of parental behavior which would facilitate in resolving conflict. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis method. Seven main themes emerged in the sources of conflict in parent adolescent relationship. They are lack of warmth, acceptance and understanding, restriction in personal freedom and imposing control, comparison and discrimination, conflicting messages (double bind communication), unduly focus on adolescents’ negative behavior, over emphasis on studies and unreasonable aggression/ lack of trust. Regarding strategies to mitigate conflict, participants’ suggestion for parents were analyzed into themes of listening and empathic understanding, freedom, flexibility, forgiveness and not discriminating. These themes on sources of conflict and strategies in resolution could be utilized by parents and adolescents in building healthy relationship.

Keywords

• Adolescent, Conflict, Parent Child Relationship, Resolution, Kathmandu