In a new report involving partnered parents and their children, the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) found that parents who are happy in their partner relationship have children with stronger friendships in adolescence, characterised by high levels of trust and communication.
In contrast, parents who have a lot of conflict in their partner relationship have children who tend to struggle more with friendships when they reach adolescence - with more trouble getting along with their peers, and weaker, less trusting friendships. These findings were consistent for both young males and females.
The report is based on data from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC), which has been following 10,000 children since 2004. LSAC is managed by AIFS on behalf of the Department of Social Services.
Lead author and Research Fellow at AIFS, Dr Kristen Power, said the findings signal that health practitioners and communities should support parents to reduce the impact of their own relationship challenges on children.
"Parenting is tough, particularly at the moment, when many households are grappling with issues like cost-of-living, housing and mental health. In couple relationships, this can sometimes lead to hostility and conflict," Dr Power said.
"We need to give parents and caregivers who are partnered the skills and support to manage stressful situations and nurture healthy relationships. For their own wellbeing, but also for that of their children."
Dr Power said helping teens better respond to parental conflict may also be beneficial.
"Conflict in the home, involving a primary parent or caregiver, is often hugely difficult for children," Dr Power said.
"Providing children with strategies to manage their emotions and avoid internalising negative behaviours by their parents might benefit their mental health and also support them in developing positive friendships."
Research shows that children who have strong, healthy peer relationships have better mental health outcomes, manage adverse events like bullying better, and are less likely to experience loneliness in early adulthood.
Only children with a partnered 'primary parent' were included in this analysis, with future work potentially focussing on single or separated families.
Read the report Parents' relationship and their children's friendships in adolescence
LSAC is the largest and longest study of Australian children. In partnership with the Department of Social Services, AIFS has been tracking 10,000 babies and toddlers since 2004, asking them and their parents about key aspects of life, including health, relationships, work, education and lifestyle.
AIFS conducts original research to increase understanding of Australian families and the issues that affect them.
