Degree Date

6-2027

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Academic Discipline

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Leah Horvath, PhD

Second Advisor

Lucia Lopez, PsyD

Third Advisor

Bradley Olson, PhD

Abstract

Parentification refers to the role reversal of children who take on adult responsibility to care for family members. This role is often filled by Mexican-American children as a result of immigration and assimilation. This study explored the relationship between parentification and adult romantic relationship satisfaction among first-generation Mexican-American adults, with particular attention to the moderating roles of attachment styles and perceived unfairness. While earlier research has linked parentification to mental health challenges, few studies have examined its long-term impact on intimate relationships, including relationship satisfaction and experiences of intimate partner violence. A total of 132 participants completed an online survey using validated measures of parentification, language brokering, attachment, relationship satisfaction, and intimate partner violence. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, multiple moderation regression analyses, and chi-square tests. The results revealed a nonsignificant relationship between parentification and intimate partner satisfaction. Further, attachment styles and perceived unfairness did not moderate this relationship. However, parentification was found to be significantly associated with intimate partner violence. These findings suggest the complex impact of cultural values on childhood role reversals and indicate that parentification may serve as a risk factor for relational safety in adulthood.

View Full Text

Share

COinS