Subjects: Psychology >> Developmental Psychology submitted time 2023-12-29
Abstract： Family dysfunction, characterized by a family's inability to fulfill its roles or the absence of positive characteristics, is a crucial factor influencing the mental health of children and adolescents. However, the nature of this relationship remains a subject of debate. To gain a relatively comprehensive understanding of the link between family dysfunction (both subjective and objective) and mental health (both positive and negative) in children and adolescents, this study employed a three-level meta-analysis. It drawn upon the family systems theory and the two-factor model of mental health as foundational frameworks. We reviewed and screened literature published up to March 1, 2022. Ultimately, 97 studies were included in the analysis, encompassing 173 effect sizes and 130,227 participants.
The main effect analysis revealed that single-parent families adversely affect the mental health of children and adolescents, exacerbating mental health issues. Other factors such as parental divorce, incarceration, substance abuse, mental illness, and subject family dysfunction also contribute to worsening mental health issues in this demographic. Additionally, the moderating effect analysis indicated that the negative impact of single-parent families is more pronounced in boys. Furthermore, in collectivist cultures, the detrimental effects of parental incarceration on children's and adolescents' mental health are more significant.
Overall, the findings from this meta-analysis supported the family systems theory. The study highlighted the importance of paying closer attention to the positive aspects of mental health in children and adolescents from dysfunctional families. It also suggested that interventions should be tailored to account for gender and cultural differences.
Hits
YES
Hits
Downloads
Comment