Parenthood and Adolescence mental health. Differences by Geographic Location and school belonging

Authors

  • Martín Casassus Rodino Universidad del Desarrollo
  • Macarena Valdés Correa Universidad San Sebastián
  • Ramón Florenzano Urzúa Universidad del Desarrollo
  • Eugenio Cáceres Contreras Universidad de Los Andes
  • Carolina Aspillaga Herrera Universidad del Desarrollo
  • Sylvia Santander Rigollet Ministerio de Salud

Abstract

Parenting styles influence adolescent´s mental health. Previous work has corroborated the explicative model proposed by Brian Barber that correlates parental variables (psychological control, behavioral control, social support) with adolescent functional behaviors (depression, antisocial behavior, social initiative). In this study the model is applied in a representative sample of students in three Chilean cities with different administrative school systems. Results: the model fits in the overall sample, but presents differences by city and school system. Social initiative doesn't correlate with parental support in Antofagasta, but it does in Santiago and Concepción. Depressions indexes are higher in private schools; state subsidized schools present the lower scores in the antisocial behavior scale.    

Keywords:

parenthood, adolescent risk behavior, parenting styles