FAMILY ENVIRONMENT AND SELF-CONCEPT OF PALESTINIAN YOUTH LIVING IN JORDANIAN REFUGEE CAMPS

Abstract

This paper reports the findings from a study of some Palestinian youth living in Jordanian camps that are considered economically distressed social environments. Variables of interest included parental relationships, family functioning, and self-concept. Results indicate that parent/adolescent relationships are within the normal, expected functional range although difficulties that reflect a more authoritarian parenting style are apparent. The self-concept of this population is moderate to negative. The overall quality of family life appears to be diminished, with a distinct tendency toward more rigid and disengaged patterns of interaction. The results are discussed in reference to socio-cultural differences.