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Family Contexts as a Background for the Development of Romantic Competencies in Adolescents
1
Faculty of Pedagogy, Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz, Poland
Submission date: 2025-02-03
Acceptance date: 2025-04-17
Online publication date: 2025-11-02
Corresponding author
Kamila Kacprzak-Wachniew
Wydział Pedagogiki, Uniwersytet Kazimierza Wielkiego w Bydgoszczy, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Polska
Wydział Pedagogiki, Uniwersytet Kazimierza Wielkiego w Bydgoszczy, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Polska
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction. Adolescence is a critical developmental period during which young people gain experiences that prepare them for social and emotional life as adults. The family, as the primary socialisation environment, plays a significant role in shaping relational patterns
and attitudes toward close relationships. Aim. This study aims to understand the influence of family contexts on the development
of adolescents’ romantic competencies. Particular emphasis was placed on factors such as attachment style, parenting practices, family climate, and sibling relationships. Methods and materials. The study is based on a systematic literature review conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Sixteen publications were analysed from 1,631 records retrieved from databases such as Scopus, ERIC, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, EBSCOhost, Oaister, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. A principle-based concept analysis approach was applied to identify antecedents of romantic competence rooted in the family of origin. Results and conclusion. Supportive parenting practices and positive family relationships directly enhance the development of adolescents’ romantic competence, while family conflicts,
neglect, and violence increase the risk of relational difficulties. Sibling relationships can act as both a protective factor and a source of conflict. The study highlights the need for implementing preventive and intervention programs that promote engaged and supportive parenting as well as foster family relationships that serve as a platform for adolescents to practice communication, conflict resolution, and self-regulation skills. Special attention should be given to tailoring support to the specific needs arising from different family structures and cultural norms in adolescents’ developmental processes.
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