How Facebook Influences Parent-Adolescent Interactions: A Study on Interpersonal Dynamics

Examining Communication Patterns and Relationship Quality in the Digital Age

Abstract

In today’s digital age, the growing prevalence of social networking platforms, particularly Facebook, among teenagers has significantly impacted their relationships with parents. This study utilizes a qualitative approach to examine Facebook’s effect on interactions between parents and adolescents, with a specific focus on interpersonal connections. Data collection was conducted through a survey guide distributed to 20 parents, aligning with a qualitative methodology. The research is anchored in the Uses and Gratifications Theory, which provides a strong basis for exploring these relational dynamics. By adopting this qualitative method, the study seeks to address existing gaps and limitations in prior research. The collected data are processed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) program. The study’s results indicate that adolescents, often deeply engaged with Facebook, feel less compelled to interact with their parents, instead building closer ties with online peers. This frequent use of Facebook is highlighted as a key factor that potentially weakens parent-adolescent bonds. Parents also report that high Facebook activity among teenagers negatively affects their relationship.