Family characteristics and adaptation in families with adolescents

Abstract

Family characteristics, and their typologies were examined in relationship to family adaptation in 97 nonclinical families with adolescents. Cohesion, adaptability, and satisfaction were measured by Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales III. Quantity of family time and routines and value of family time and routines were assessed using an adapted version of the Family Time and Routines Index. The dependent variable, family adaptation, was obtained using the Family Member Wellbeing Index. Neither the Rhythmic Typology nor the Balanced Typology had significant differences in family across typology groups. Multiple regression analyses showed that the only family characteristic that explained variance in family adaptation was family satisfaction (Beta=.22, p <.05). The results suggest that it may be too simplistic to expect family characteristics or typologies alone to explain variance in family adaptation. The characteristics need to be examined in conjunction with stress theory variables.