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Dyadic variability in mother-adolescent interactions: developmental trajectories and associations with psychosocial
Daniёlle Van der Giessen1, Susan J T Branje, Tom Frijns
1Research Centre Adolescent Development, Utrecht University, PO Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands. D.vanderGiessen@uu.nl
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|July 18, 2012
Summary
Mother-adolescent relationship quality improves with greater dyadic variability, a wider range of emotional expression during interactions. High decreasing variability dyads showed fewer behavior problems and better relationship quality over time.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Family Studies
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Dyadic variability, the range of emotional states in interactions, is crucial for mother-adolescent relationship development.
- Low dyadic flexibility is linked to behavioral and relationship issues in adolescents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate heterogeneity in dyadic variability development within mother-adolescent interactions.
- To examine the association between dyadic variability and psychosocial functioning.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of 92 mother-adolescent dyads over five annual home visits.
- Videotaped conflict discussions and questionnaires on adolescent aggression and relationship quality.
- Distinguished between low variability and high decreasing variability dyads.
Main Results:
- High decreasing variability dyads exhibited a broader emotional repertoire than low variability dyads.
- Over time, high decreasing variability dyads showed reduced adolescent aggression and enhanced perceived relationship quality.
- Distinct developmental trajectories in psychosocial adjustment were observed between the two dyad types.
Conclusions:
- Increased dyadic variability over time correlates with fewer adjustment problems and healthier mother-adolescent relationships.
- Adaptive interactions involve a wide emotional range; mothers should encourage expression of both positive and negative affect.
- Assessing dyadic variability can aid clinicians in differentiating adaptive from maladaptive mother-adolescent dynamics.
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