Exploring The Relationship Between Authoritarian Parenting Style and Antisocial Behaviour Among Malaysian University Students Across Genders

Abstract: The increasing rate of antisocial behaviour has become a global concern, with authoritarian parenting identified as one of the contributing factors. This study aimed to examine the relationship between authoritarian parenting style and antisocial behaviour, particularly physical aggression, social aggression, and rule-breaking among Malaysian university students across genders. This cross-sectional study recruited 174 Malaysian university students aged 18 to 25. The Parental Authority Questionnaire (PAQ) was used to assess authoritarian parenting style, while the Subtypes of Antisocial Behaviour Questionnaire (STAB) measured physical aggression, social aggression, and rule-breaking tendencies. The findings showed that authoritarian parenting was strongly linked to antisocial behaviour, including physical aggression, social aggression, and rule breaking. No significant gender differences were found in antisocial behaviour. These findings align with previous research demonstrating the correlation between authoritarian parenting and antisocial tendencies. The only difference lies in the strength of the associations. Future research should explore underlying mechanisms such as emotional regulation, peer influence and cultural influences in shaping antisocial behaviour.