Confirmation in Parent–Adolescent Relationships and Adolescent Openness: Toward Extending Confirmation Theory

Abstract

Using self-report and observational data from parent and mid-adolescent dyads, this study examined the role of confirmation in parent–adolescent relationships regarding adolescents’ openness with their parents. Results from the self-report data suggest a positive link between parental confirmation and adolescent openness. The observational data revealed a more complex picture, particularly highlighting adolescents’ role in parent–adolescent communication as well as in their own openness. Adolescents’ confirmation was positively related to their openness, particularly for females. Sequential analyses further revealed that adolescents reporting less openness exhibited a greater mix of confirming and disconfirming messages towards parents, whereas adolescents reporting more openness exhibited more reciprocation of confirmation. The results suggest theory regarding confirmation in family relationships should incorporate a transactional perspective.