Family Dynamic and Antisocial Adolescents in Macau

Research output: Journal Publications and Reviews (RGC: 21, 22, 62)21_Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

View graph of relations

Detail(s)

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)941–952
Journal / PublicationChild and Youth Care Forum
Volume49
Issue number6
Online published3 Aug 2020
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2020

Abstract

Background  The present study aims to delineate the effects of family violence and parent-adolescent conflict on antisocial behavior exhibited by adolescents in the Chinese casino city of Macau. The social interaction perspective indicates the significance of coercive family processes in relation to adolescents’ antisocial behavior, and the related moderating role of positive parenting behavior. How this process is experienced by Chinese Macau adolescents, who are influenced by traditional Chinese culture, is explored.
Objectives  This article examines the relationship of family violence and parent-adolescent conflict with adolescents’ antisocial behavior in Macau. It also examines the possible moderating role of parental support in this relationship.
Method  Using a stratified proportional approach, a random sample of 1889 Grade 7 to Grade 12 students was taken from Macau high schools. The young people reported their neutral/positive behavior and delinquent behavior, family conflict, and emotional and instrumental support they received from parents.
Results  Multiple regression analyses suggest that family violence and parent-adolescent conflict are correlated with adolescent antisocial behavior. Moreover, both instrumental and emotional support from parents can moderate the effect of family conflict on adolescents’ antisocial behavior.
Conclusions  Parents providing instrumental and emotional support to Macau Chinese adolescents is negatively correlated with adolescent antisocial behavior in Macau. In view of the long and unstable working hours of parents working in a gambling city, social workers in Macau could develop more innovative programs to support parents in Macau.

Research Area(s)

  • Family confict, Parental support, Delinquency, Antisocial behavior, Macau