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Gender Differences in Perceived Family Involvement and Perceived Family Control during Emerging Adulthood: A
M C García-Mendoza1, A Parra1, I Sánchez-Queija1
1Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.
Women perceive higher parental involvement than men, while men experience more behavioral control in Portugal. Gender socialization patterns persist in emerging adulthood, influenced by cultural context.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Emerging adulthood is a critical developmental period characterized by identity exploration and evolving family relationships.
- Understanding gender differences in perceived parental dynamics is crucial for comprehending adolescent and young adult development.
- Sociocultural factors significantly shape family interactions and socialization processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender disparities in perceived parental involvement and psychological and behavioral control among emerging adults.
- To compare these perceptions in two Southern European countries: Spain and Portugal.
- To examine how gender moderates the relationship between parental involvement and control.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey data collected from 491 Portuguese and 552 Spanish undergraduate emerging adults (ages 18-29).
- Statistical analyses were employed to compare gender differences and moderation effects.
- Perceived parental involvement, psychological control, and behavioral control were assessed through self-report measures.
Main Results:
- Women reported higher perceived parental involvement than men in both Spain and Portugal.
- Men perceived greater behavioral control than women in Portugal.
- Gender moderated the association between parental involvement and control differently across the two countries.
Conclusions:
- Gender-differentiated socialization processes continue into emerging adulthood.
- Sociocultural context plays a role in shaping these gendered parental dynamics.
- Findings highlight the interplay between gender, family relationships, and cultural influences in Southern Europe.
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