International E-Journal of Advances in Social Sciences

Öz

Numerous studies confirm that for the socialization and healthy psychosocial development of children, a quality relationship between children and parents is more important than the family structure itself. By communicating with parents and other family members, the child adopts patterns and norms of behaviour and constructs his/her own identity. The relationship between the family environment and the child's development is not one-way but a reciprocal relationship in which the parents influence the child and the child influences the parents. Mutual respect, healthy communication and feeling of support are necessary aspects of a quality family environment.
The goal of this research was to examine the characteristics of the relationship and communication between parents regarding the raising of children and making decisions, as well as the relationship and communication between parents and children. The research was conducted on a targeted sample of single-parent and two-parent families in the city of Split (Croatia) during 2022. An online survey method was used, and a total of 200 parents aged 20 to 59 participated.
The results of the research show that most parents try to expose their children to healthy environments that encourage fun and creativity. Most parents use more positive methods that encourage children to self-reflect and learn from their own mistakes. At the same time, they try to be honest with their children and show them trust through everyday conversations. They also spend a lot of time together by gathering for daily meals at home. However, the results showed that partners in two-parent families more often agree on educational methods than in single-parent families. Regardless of their relationships with current or former partners, parents often question their role as parents, but rarely attend seminars or workshops on parenting.