abstract
This study sought to answer whether there is an association between parent-adolescent relationship processes and adolescents' awareness of unhealthy relationships. Adolescent awareness of unhealthy relationships was measured using a retrospective pre/post survey after participation in a relationship education (RE) program that has been adapted for use with youth. Supportiveness in the parent-child relationship was measured at pre-test. The sample consisted of 6984 adolescents aged 11–18. The sample was fairly representative of the areas from which it was drawn: 54% European American, 36% African American. Results revealed significant improvement in awareness of unhealthy relationships after program participation. Greater supportiveness predicted greater change in the outcome. This suggests that RE programs targeted at youth should specifically inform parents of goals so that they may be reinforced in parents' interactions with their adolescents.
Funding
Administration for Children and Families, grant no. 90FE0001.