The degree of family orientation perceived by mothers, fathers, and adolescents

Data were collected from mothers, fathers, and adolescents in 83 rural and 93 urban families on the degree of family orientation in each subject's self-reported attitudes. Based upon t tests between mothers and fathers, mothers and adolescents, and fathers and adolescents, differences in attitudes about the degree of family orientation among family members were explored. The data were further analyzed for rural-urban differences. Significant family differences were found on eight of ten questions. Mothers demonstrated the highest degree of family orientation. Fathers were often the most individualistic in their total attitudes. Adolescents wanted to be autonomous but still retain the security of knowing that they had family-oriented parents.