Understanding the Parent-Child Relationship during the Transition into College and Emerging Adulthood Using the Relational Turbulence Theory

Abstract

Emerging adulthood presents individuals with increased levels of relational uncertainty, perceived interference, and feelings of conflict or turbulence, especially within the parent-child dyad as children enter emerging adulthood. This study argues the relationship turbulence theory provides a framework to examine parent-child dyads experiencing the transition into adulthood. One hundred and forty-three emerging adults reported on their relationship with a parent, as well as recent interactions with their parent. Structural equation modeling demonstrated the relational turbulence theory is generalizable to parent-child contexts. Further explanation of these results and possible implications of the study are discussed.

Keywords:

• emerging adults
• family communication
• parent-child communication
• relational turbulence theory
• relational uncertainty