Parental Attachment and Parental Autonomy Support as Predictors of Prosocial Behaviour Among Indian Adolescents.

Abstract

Background: The development of prosocial behaviour is a crucial facet of adolescent growth, encompassing acts of kindness, empathy and cooperation. It is widely recognised that multiple factors influence the formation of prosocial tendencies during adolescence.

Purpose: Among these factors, parental attachment and parental autonomy support are pivotal. Attachment theory states that secure parent-child bonds form the bedrock of prosocial behaviour. Adolescents with emotionally close, trusting parental relationships exhibit greater prosocial behaviour. Furthermore, parental autonomy support, which balances guidance with decision-making freedom, further nurtures responsibility and empathy. Together, these factors play a crucial role in shaping adolescents' prosocial behaviour.

Methodology: In this study, the relationship between parental attachment and autonomy with prosocial behaviour is studied by using correlation and regression analyses.

Results and conclusion: All attachment and autonomy support variables demonstrated positive correlations with overall prosocial behaviour except for alienation from mother and father, which showed a negative association. This indicates that a stronger connection with the parents is linked to higher prosocial behaviour. Additionally, mother communication along with mother and father offering choice within certain limits as predictors of prosocial behaviours in adolescents is a major finding of the study.