Impact of Parental Technoference and Parenting Practices on Adolescent Disruptive Behaviors

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technology has profoundly reshaped family interactions, particularly influencing parent-adolescent relationships. This study investigates examines the relationship between parental technoference—disruptions in parent-adolescent interactions due to digital device use—and parenting practices. It further explores the impact of parent technoference and parenting practices on adolescent disruptive behaviors, including internalizing and externalizing tendencies. Utilizing a quantitative, cross-sectional research design, data was collected from 275 adolescents aged 11–17 years in Islamabad, employing the Parent Technoference Scale, Alabama Parenting Questionnaire – 9 items, and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Findings reveal a significant positive correlation between parental technoference and adolescents’ externalizing behaviors, while positive parenting practices were inversely associated with such behaviors. Regression analyses indicate that technoference significantly predicts disruptive behaviors. These results highlight the urgent need for mindful technology use among parents to foster healthier family relationships and minimize adverse developmental outcomes. This research contributes to understanding the impact of parent technoference and parenting practices, offering insights for targeted interventions in a digitalized familial context.