Parent and adolescent perceptions of parent–child developmental relationships: The role of family routines

Abstract Objective This study examined family routines in relation to the strength of parent–child developmental relationships and discordant perceptions among parents and their adolescent children. Background Positive parent–child relationships and regular engagement in family routines are known to create a positive environment in which adolescents can thrive. Yet both parents and their children hold unique perspectives on family structure and functioning. Agreement between parent and child reports tend to be low and often become increasingly discrepant during adolescence. Engaging in consistent and predictable family routines may not only strengthen parent–child relationships but also result in more concordant perceptions of the quality of their shared relationship. Method Using data from 633 matched parents and their children, we examined the association between engagement in family routines and the strength of parent–adolescent relationships including discrepant reports using a latent congruence model. Results Family routines were positively associated with stronger parent–adolescent relationships and less discrepant reports of this critical relationship. Conclusion Engagement in family routines plays an important role in parent–adolescent developmental relationships. Implications Findings have important implications for practices and research focused on improving adolescent outcomes through family structures and parent–child relationships.