Gender Differences in Relationship Between Family Functioning and Risky Behaviors of Adolescents in China

Abstract

This study investigates gender differences in the longitudinal relationship between family functioning and risky behaviors among Chinese adolescents. A total of 1301 participants (mean age: 12.46 ± 0.63; boys: 51.2%) were assessed at three time points, one year apart. Using a cross-lagged panel model, the study identifies a cycle where risky behaviors negatively predict family functioning, which in turn negatively predict risky behaviors. Additionally, the results of subgroup analysis revealed the possibility that the associations between family functioning and risky behaviors differ by gender. For girls, there was a bidirectional negative association between family functioning and risky behaviors. In contrast, for boys, only risky behaviors at T2 negatively predicted family functioning at T3. These findings emphasize the need for personalized education and interventions by parents and educators. For boys, managing risky behaviors appropriately is crucial, while interventions for girls should emphasize both improving family functioning and reducing risky behaviors simultaneously.