THE IMPACT OF PARENTING STYLE ON ADOLESCENT AGGRESSION: EXAMINING THE MEDIATING ROLES OF PEER VICTIMIZATION AND EMOTION REGULATION

Abstract

This study examines the mediating roles of peer victimization and emotion regulation in the relationship between parenting styles and adolescent aggression in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A sample of 580 adolescents (338 boys and 242 girls), aged 14 to 21, was drawn from public and private educational institutions to ensure diversity. The Parenting Style and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ), Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ), Multidimensional Peer Victimization Scale (MPVS), and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) were used for data collection. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 21 and PROCESS Macro v4.2, applying descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and parallel regression models. The results indicated that the authoritative parenting style was negatively associated with aggression, whereas authoritarian and permissive parenting styles showed positive associations. Emotion regulation significantly mediated the relationship between parenting styles and aggression, reducing its impact. However, peer victimization did not serve as a significant mediator. The study outlined key findings, acknowledged its limitations, and provided recommendations for future research.

Keywords: Parenting style, Aggressive Behavior, Peer Victimization, Emotion Regulation, Adolescents.