Understanding the Behavior of Emerging Adults Through Perceptions of Childhood Parental Rejection

According to Interpersonal Acceptance-Rejection Theory (IPARTheory), feeling loved and accepted in childhood is crucial (Rohner, 2021). Cross-cultural studies show that unmet parental acceptance can lead to negative outcomes. This study examined how perceived parental rejection in childhood affects emerging adults’ romantic relationships, friendships, social interactions, and coping behaviors. A total of 174 participants (67% women, 32% men, 1 non-binary; M age = 19.86, SD = 1.55) completed an online survey with established scales measuring perceived parental rejection, relationship dynamics, coping strategies, and social behaviors (Cronbach’s α = .76–.95). Perceived maternal rejection was linked to more withdrawal in romantic relationships (r = .28, p = .03), attachment-related anxiety in friendships (r = .24, p = .002), disorganized romantic attachment (r = .21, p = .03), alcohol/cigarette use as coping (r = .19, p = .01), and less religious coping (r = -.16, p = .04). Perceived paternal rejection was associated with more withdrawal in romantic relationships (r = .40, p = .002), attachment-related anxiety in friendships (r = .33, p < .001), disorganized romantic attachment (r = .30, p = .001), alcohol/cigarette use (r = .33, p < .001), less social support (r = -.18, p = .02), and greater fear of intimacy (r = .29, p = .03). Findings highlight the lasting impact of childhood rejection on emerging adults' relationships and coping behaviors, emphasizing its continued significance.