The Relationship Between Dysfunctional Parent-Child Communication and Relational Aggression among Undergraduate Students: The sequential mediating effects of internalized shame and rejection sensitivity

Objectives: This study examined the sequential mediating effects of internalized shame and rejection sensitivity in the relationship between dysfunctional parent-child communication and relational aggression among undergraduate students. Methods: A total of 222 undergraduate students aged 19 to 29 participated in a self-report survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0 and PROCESS Macro 4.2, and mediating effects were tested using Hayes’ model 6 and bootstrapping methods. Results: The results revealed a significant indirect effect of dysfunctional parent-child communication on relational aggression among undergraduate students, mediated by internalized shame and rejection sensitivity. However, the total effect was not statistically significant, and the direction of the direct effect was opposite to that of the indirect effect, suggesting the presence of suppression effects between the variables. Conclusions: Although dysfunctional parent–child communication may not appear to be associated with relational aggression, the significant indirect effect through emotional mediators suggests an underlying link. This study underscores the enduring influence of parent–child interactions in college students from a systemic perspective and emphasizes the need for integrated interventions and sociocultural considerations.