Parent-child attachment, perceived parental rejection, and autonomy support among Chinese adolescents

This study examined the relationships between parent-child attachment, perceived parental rejection, and autonomy support in family education.It aimed to describe respondents' profiles by sex, age, only child status, educational attainment, place of origin, and parental education levels.The study used a quantitative descriptive design with 385 Chinese youths as participants.Results indicated that most respondents were females, only children, aged 25 to 39, college graduates, residing in towns, with parents who completed vocational courses.Respondents generally viewed their mothers as competent, trusting, and accepting, though they occasionally wished for a different mother or felt expressing emotions was futile.Mothers were often seen as loving and supportive, but respondents reported some embarrassment from their behavior or being scolded publicly.Respondents perceived their parents as allowing significant autonomy in decision-making and valuing their opinions.Demographic factors did not significantly affect perceptions of parental attachment or autonomy, but they did influence perceptions of parenting style.Significant correlations were found between parental attachment and parenting style, parental attachment and parental autonomy, and parental autonomy and parenting style.A family education program was designed and proposed for implementation to address and improve these aspects of family dynamics.Researchers may account for gender bias, explore perspectives from younger age groups, and assess the impact of diverse educational backgrounds on research generalizability. Family counselors and therapists may focus on open communication, emotional expression,and strategies for addressing conflicts, while educators, policymakers, and community leaders may foster supportive environments and equitable access to education.