Perceived Parenting Styles, Self-Regulation and Multidimensional Well-Being among Adolescents of Armed Forces and Civilian Families (Mixed Method Study)

Purpose: Adolescence is a crucial developmental stage where parent-child relationships are often reevaluated. This study examined the effect of perceived parenting styles and self-regulation on the multidimensional well-being of adolescents from armed forces and civilian families. Methodology: A mixed-method research design was employed. Study I (quantitative) included 300 adolescents (150 from each family type) in Lahore, selected through purposive sampling. Assessment measures used were the Adolescents Self-Regulation Inventory (ASRI) and the Multidimensional Well-Being Scale (PERMA Profiler). Findings: Findings revealed that short-term self-regulation (SSR) had a negative significant relationship with multidimensional well-being (MWB), while long-term self-regulation (LSR) showed a positive significant relationship with MWB. SSR negatively predicted MWB, while LSR positively predicted MWB. Adolescents from armed forces families had higher SSR and MWB, whereas those from civilian families had higher LSR and MWB. Study II (qualitative) employed thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews from six adolescents from both family types to explore the role of perceived parenting styles and their impact on multidimensional well-being. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study advances theory by highlighting the distinct roles of short- and long-term self-regulation in adolescent well-being. It informs policy by emphasizing the need for context-specific parenting support programs. Practically, it guides mental health professionals and educators in developing interventions that promote balanced parenting and enhance adolescent well-being across diverse family backgrounds.