Communication Patterns and Parent-Child Relationship Issues: A Case Study of Families Resident in University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State

Anyakoha, Belinda U; Cookey, Ibiere T; Odenigbo Cynthia I.; & Anorue, Luke I

Authors

Anyakoha, Belinda U; Cookey, Ibiere T; Odenigbo Cynthia I.; & Anorue, Luke I Department of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, Nsukka Author

Abstract

This study focused on issues relating to communication patterns and parent-child relationships among households resident in University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) senior staff quarters. Specifically, the study determined ways family communication patterns influence parent/adolescent-child relationship among residents of UNN senior staff quarters (SSQs), digital communication channels used by families to enhance parent/adolescent-child relationship among residents of UNN SSQs, challenges that militate against parent/adolescent-child relationship and communication among residents of UNN SSQs and solutions to challenges militating against parent/adolescent-child relationship and communication among residents of UNN SSQs. The study adopted a survey design. Population for study comprised of residents of senior staff quarters in University of Nigeria Nsukka. Data were collected using questionnaire. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. Findings include 11 possible ways communication patterns (open, close, aggressive and passive) influence parent/adolescent-child relationship. For instance, open communication pattern can engender “trust” ( = 2.97), “enjoyment” ( = 3.37), instruction/teaching/learning ( = 2.92), and so on. Other findings include seven groups of digital channels used in parent/adolescent-child communication. These include mobile application (APPs) ( = 3.31), video calls ( = 3.12), social media ( = 3.03), online learning ( = 2.72), and others. Further findings are eight challenges militating against parent/adolescent-child relationship and communication, such as, busy schedules of parents ( = 3.22), differences in communication styles among family members ( = 3.11). More findings are seven measures for ameliorating the challenges, including, establishing regular family communication time ( = 3.03), respect for other opinions ( = 3.11), use open communication patterns and be honest ( = 2.92). and others. Based on the findings four recommendations were made.