The Influence of Intergenerational Relationships and Authority on Family Climate Perceived by University Students

Abstract Objective and Aim: The family serves as the primary social environment in which individuals develop their attitudes, behaviors, and values. It plays a crucial role in shaping personal identity, fostering emotional well-being, and transmitting cultural and social norms across generations. The quality of intergenerational relationships and the way authority is perceived within the family can significantly influence the overall family climate, which in turn affects an individual's psychological development and social interactions. While supportive and understanding family dynamics promote positive emotional bonds, excessive authority and rigid hierarchical structures may create tension and negatively impact familial harmony. This study aims to examine how university students perceive intergenerational relationships and authority within their families and to explore the influence of these perceptions on the family climate. By analyzing these dynamics, we seek to provide insights into how different family structures and socioeconomic factors shape students' experiences within their familial environments. Materials and Methods: In this study, university students who voluntarily agreed to participate were asked to complete an online questionnaire, which took approximately 7–8 minutes. The study evaluated participants' perceptions of intergenerational relationships and authority using the Sociodemographic Information Form and the Family Climate Scale (FCS). Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Mean and standard deviation values were calculated for continuous variables, while categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages. Comparisons between groups were conducted using independent samples t-tests and ANOVA for normally distributed variables, while non-parametric tests were applied when appropriate. A significance level of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 772 university students participated in the study, of whom 485 were female. The mean age of the participants was 22.05 ± 2.84 years. The mean total score on the FCS was 67.83 ± 11.73. A high level of perceived intergenerational authority was identified in 58.29% of participants, which negatively influenced the family climate (mean FCS score = 66.15). Conversely, in families characterized by low perceived intergenerational authority and high intergenerational interest—defined as tolerant and understanding (16.84%)—family relationships were positively affected (mean FCS score = 77.57). No significant relationship was found between perceived intergenerational authority and age, or between the participant’s or their family’s place of residence (p > 0.05). However, participants with a family income below 2020 TL, those from divorced/remarried families, and those with three or more siblings perceived intergenerational authority significantly more strongly (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Understanding the dynamics of intergenerational relationships and perceptions of authority within families is crucial for fostering a supportive and harmonious family climate. Our findings suggest that excessive intergenerational authority can negatively impact family relationships, while a more tolerant and understanding family environment contributes to positive emotional and social well-being. Moreover, socioeconomic factors such as lower household income, complex family structures (e.g., divorced or remarried families), and having multiple siblings appear to be associated with a stronger perception of intergenerational authority. These insights highlight the need for family-centered interventions and policies aimed at improving communication, reducing generational conflicts, and fostering a balanced family climate that supports young adults' emotional and psychological development. Future research should further explore the long-term effects of intergenerational authority and family climate on young adults' social adaptation, academic performance, and mental health. Additionally, targeted support programs may be beneficial in helping families cultivate healthier intergenerational relationships, ultimately promoting individual and societal well-being. Keywords: Family Climate, Intergenerational Relationships, Authority