The Impact of Family Communication Patterns on Emotional Well-Being Among Adolescents

Abstract

Background: Healthy communication in families is crucial to teens' emotional well-being. Family communication patterns such as support, openness and communication style impact on emotional well-being. Poor communication or communication restrictions can lead to emotional distress, anxiety and aggression in adolescence. Objective: This research sought to understand how family communication influences the emotional health of adolescents, and what type of communication is related to better mental health. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey of 250 adolescents (12-19 years of age) was undertaken. Family communication and mental health were measured with standardised questionnaires. Data were analysed using correlation and regression analyses.  Findings: The findings showed 48% of the study's participants reported open communication with their families, which was related to better emotional well-being (r = 0.55, p < 0.01). However, restrictive communication was positively associated with anxiety and distress (mean score = 26.8 ± 5.4). Participants with supportive families had better mental health.  Conclusion: Healthy family communication plays a vital role in improving adolescents' emotional well-being, suggesting a need for family-focused interventions and education initiatives