Adolescent peer relationships and mental health functioning in families with domestic violence

J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2002 Jun;31(2):206-18. doi: 10.1207/S15374424JCCP3102_06.

Abstract

Examined the impact of domestic violence, child abuse, and attachment style on adolescent mental health and relationship functioning. Data were collected on 111 adolescents, ages 14 to 16, and their mothers. Results indicate that both attachment and family violence experiences negatively impact mental health. In addition, family violence significantly predicted attachment style. Significant protective and vulnerability factors included maternal psychological functioning, maternal positive parenting, and perceived social support from friends. However, findings provided only limited support for the model of attachment as a mediator of the impact of family violence on adolescent relationships.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child Abuse / diagnosis
  • Child Abuse / statistics & numerical data
  • Domestic Violence*
  • Family / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Male
  • Maternal Behavior / psychology
  • Mental Disorders / diagnosis
  • Mental Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Mental Disorders / prevention & control
  • Object Attachment
  • Parenting
  • Peer Group*
  • Social Support
  • Surveys and Questionnaires