Cultural Hybridity and Parenting Styles: Analyzing Authoritative and Authoritarian Dynamics in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, the interaction between traditional values and modern influences creates a unique cultural landscape that influences family dynamics, intergenerational communication, and adolescent mental health. This study aimed to fill critical research gaps by exploring the relationship between authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles within this hybrid cultural context. Parenting style scores were based on the PSDQ-26 questionnaires completed by both parents of 2325 students. These students also provided demographic data used in the analysis (1013 girls, M age = 13.35, SD = 1.22). The data analysis examined the correlations between parenting styles and variations across gender and age groups. Contrary to patterns observed in Western contexts, the results indicated no significant correlation between authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles ( r = 0.02, p > 0.05), suggesting a complex coexistence influenced by Hong Kong’s hybrid sociocultural context. Notably, the study revealed gender-based differences: boys’ parents reported higher levels of democratic participation and reasoning, reflecting authoritative parenting, while also showing greater use of physical coercion and punitive discipline, indicative of authoritarian parenting. Authoritative parenting, but not authoritarian parenting, showed a decline as children matured. By investigating these dynamics, the study not only addresses a significant gap in the literature but also enhances the understanding of how cultural and developmental factors shape parenting practices. These insights are crucial for developing culturally adapted parenting education materials and informing interventions that support child development in diverse cultural settings.