Relational identification with parents, parenting, and parent–child value similarity among adolescents

Abstract

We investigate the role of relational identification with parents in the socialization processes involved in parent–child value similarity. We examine the parenting correlates of identification, of acceptance of perceived parental values, and of value similarity. A total of 547 adolescents reported their own values and the values they perceive that their parents wish for them. Parents reported their socialization values. Identification related positively to accepting perceived parental values. It related positively to value similarity only when adolescents perceived mothers' values accurately. Identification and acceptance related positively to perceived parental warmth and responsiveness but negatively to perceived parental word–deed inconsistency.

Keywords:

• parenting
• values
• value transmission
• identification
• adolescence

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by a grant from the Israel Science Foundation (grant No. 731/98) to the second author. This work was supported by a grant from The Science of Generosity Initiative, Center for the Study of Religion and Society, University of Notre Dame, funded by the John Templeton Foundation, to the first author and by the Higher School of Economics Basic Research Program (International Lab of Sociocultural Research) to the second author.

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