Family Structure and Adolescent Wellbeing: A Comparative Study of Polygamous and Monogamous Households in Chulungoma Village, Zambia

This study investigated the relationship between family structure and the psychosocial wellbeing of adolescents in Chulungoma village of Mbala District, Northern Province of Zambia. Using a cross-sectional quantitative design, data were collected from 281 adolescents through structured questionnaires. The study explored adolescents’ perceptions of emotional support, parental involvement, autonomy, and communication within monogamous and polygamous family settings. The results revealed statistically significant associations between family structure and key indicators of psychosocial wellbeing. Adolescents from monogamous families reported higher levels of emotional support (p < .001), greater autonomy (p < .001), and more frequent parental engagement and responsiveness (p < .001). Additionally, most adolescents expressed a stronger emotional connection with their mothers than with their fathers. The study underscores the role of family composition in shaping adolescent development and highlights the need for supportive parenting practices across different household structures. Findings have practical implications for family-centered interventions, child welfare policies, and psychosocial support programs aimed at enhancing adolescent wellbeing in both monogamous and polygamous settings.