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Published on: September 19, 2019
Supportive Romantic Relationships as Predictors of Resilience Against Early Adolescent Maternal Negativity
David E Szwedo1,2, Elenda T Hessel3, Joseph P Allen3
1Department of Psychology, James Madison University, Miller Hall, 91 E. Grace St., MSC 7704, Harrisonburg, VA, 22807, USA. szwedode@jmu.edu.
Abstract:
Negativity in parent-child relationships during adolescence has been viewed as a risk factor for teens' future personal and interpersonal adjustment. This study examined support from romantic partners and close friends during late adolescence as protective against maternal negativity experienced during early adolescence. A combination of observational, self-report, and peer-report measures were obtained from a community sample of 97 youth (58 % female), their mothers, closest friends, and romantic partners assessed at ages 13, 18, and 20. Moderating effects suggested a protective effect of romantic support against maternal negativity across a variety of psychosocial outcomes, including depressive symptoms, self-worth, social withdrawal, and externalizing behavior. Protective effects were found even after controlling for initial levels of outcome behavior and observed support from close friends throughout adolescence. Receiving support from a romantic partner may provide teens with new, positive ways of coping with adversity and help them avoid more serious distress that may be predicted from maternal negativity when such support is not available.
Related Concept Videos
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types
Hazan and Shaver's Attachment Styles
Attachment Styles
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative...

