The Role of Parenting Practices in Adolescent Aggression and Impulsivity

Parents have an influential role in adolescent development. Previous findings have found a relationship between parenting practices and adolescent behavioral problems. The purpose of this study was to analyze different parenting practices’ influence on impulsive and aggressive behaviors in adolescents. This study uses data gathered from a unique population of at-risk adolescents from a military-style bootcamp who were asked about their parents’ behaviors and their own behaviors. Findings from this study expand upon previous research on parenting practices by analyzing a specific population of at-risk youth and looking at specific forms of impulsive and aggressive behaviors. Data was collected through computerized questionnaires at the adolescents’ residential facility. A total of 173 adolescents, consisting of 146 males and 27 females (63.8% Caucasian, 25.9% African American, 9.8% Other race/ethnicity), completed questionnaires asking about their upbringing when living at home and their display of aggressive and impulsive behaviors. The results found that positive parenting practices (e.g., parental involvement) were associated with fewer aggressive and impulsive behaviors. In contrast, negative parenting practices (e.g., inconsistent discipline) were correlated with more aggressive and impulsive behaviors. The results of this study could be used to promote healthier parenting practices for the betterment of adolescent development and parent-child relationships.