ABSTRACT
Adolescence is a point of transition for families that can create turbulence in the parent-child relationship as both parties work to successfully navigate changing relational dynamics (Branje, 2008; Branje et al, 2013; Knobloch & Solomon, 2004). Conflict is characteristic of this developmental stage due to the high levels of interdependence and emotional involvement between parents and adolescent children (Braiker & Kelly, 1979; Laursen & Collins, 2004; Sillars et al, 2004). Indeed, adolescents report experiencing interpersonal conflict most often with mothers, followed by fathers and close friends (Laursen & Collins, 1994). Parent–child conflicts can increase in both frequency and intensity during early adolescence with the topics of conflict often centering on mundane issues such as cleanliness, chores, and curfews (Adams & Laursen, 2001). The conflictual discussions between parents and adolescents are of substantial import to adolescent development as children seek to obtain autonomy from parents through these interactions (Branje, 2008). Efforts to gain autonomy must be strategically managed to preserve the parent-adolescent relationship and the individuals’ well-being. However, parent–child conflict interactions are often resolved through the use of negative communication behaviors including power displays and withdrawal (Adams & Laursen, 2001). As such these conflict interactions are punctuated by the use of demand and withdraw behaviors (Caughlin & Malis, 2004a; 2004b; Caughlin & Ramey, 2005).
