Challenges Faced by Parents of Adolescence in Urban Areas of Karachi

Parenting adolescents has become increasingly complex in today’s modern technology world. Social media exposure, academic pressure, peer influence and shifting cultural norms often add stress to both parents and children. Understanding parents’ perceptions of these challenges is essential for developing effective support systems that strengthen family relationships and promote healthy adolescent development. This study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of parents regarding the difficulties they face while raising adolescents in the current era. A qualitative study design was employed to explore the perceptions of parents of adolescents regarding the challenges they face in parenting today. An online Google form was administered to collect in-depth insights from parents through an open-ended questionnaire Sample of 117 parents of adolescents (aged between 10-19 years) in the Urban settings of Karachi were administered. Google form distribution allowed parents to complete the questionnaire at their own pace. Manual thematic analysis was used to extract codes, and themes. Five key themes were identified through manual thematic analysis, including Raising Children in the Current Era, Advancement in Technology, Generational Gaps, Moral and Value-Based, and parental support. This study's findings showed several challenges regarding Adolescents' parenting in the Urban settings of Karachi. Challenges such as advancement in technology, the generation gap, and the decline in moral values are affecting the parent-child relationship and the well-being of children. The findings suggest that despite the challenges, parents are committed to showing support for their child through understanding the perspective of Gen Z.