Cultural Factors Related to Latinx Adolescent Parents’ Healthy Relationship Outcomes and Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

This study investigated how cultural factors relate to romantic relationship attitudes and behaviors among Latinx adolescent parents. Guided by a culturally informed prosocial perspective, the study examined the associations between cultural orientation (acculturation and enculturation), familism values, traditional gender role attitudes, and Latinx adolescent parents’ reports of healthy relationship attitudes, healthy conflict management, and intimate partner violence (IPV). Path analyses revealed that higher acculturation and familism values were positively associated with healthier relationship attitudes and engagement in healthy conflict management behaviors. In contrast, less traditional gender role attitudes were linked to healthier relationship attitudes. Notably, the links between acculturation, familism, and relationship attitudes were stronger for U.S.-born youth than immigrant youth. In addition, familism was negatively associated with IPV engagement only among immigrant adolescents. These findings highlight the importance of considering cultural factors, particularly traditional gender role attitudes and familism, in understanding and promoting healthy romantic relationship development among Latinx adolescent parents. The study emphasizes the need for tailored, culturally responsive prevention efforts to address the Latinx community’s diversity. By supporting Latinx adolescent parents in cultivating fulfilling romantic relationships, these efforts can help break cycles of IPV and promote healthy family dynamics.