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The intergenerational influence of harsh parenting on family relationship quality

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Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies

Published online on

Abstract

["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThe current study examines harsh parenting as experienced in the family of origin and its influence on relationship quality across generations.\n\n\nBackground\nUsing data from the Family Transitions Project, this study investigates how generation one (G1) harsh parenting during generation two (G2) adolescence influences G1–G2 relationship quality in G2 early adulthood and G1–G3 relationship quality in G2 established adulthood.\n\n\nMethod\nThe present sample included 285 White non‐Hispanic G1 mothers, G1 fathers, and G2s with a biological G3 child. The data were analyzed at three time points (Time 1: G2 age 16; Time 2: G2 age 27, and 29; and Time 3: G2 age 38). Structural equation modeling was undertaken using Mplus.\n\n\nResults\nG1 harsh parenting predicted poor G1–G2 relationship quality, which, in turn, was associated with weaker G1–G3 relationship quality, with no differences between mothers and fathers in the observed pathways.\n\n\nConclusion\nHarsh parenting dynamics in one generation can shape and carry over to the quality of family relationships in subsequent generations.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study illustrates the long‐term effects of harsh parenting on intergenerational relationships, emphasizing the need for early interventions to promote positive family dynamics across time.\n\n"]