The development of a parent–child activity based on the principles of perceptual control theory

Abstract

AbstractProblems most frequently reported by young people in school counselling relate to family difficulties. During adolescence, conflict between parents and young people increases as young people move towards independence whilst still being reliant on parents. The quality of communication during this period has implications for young people’s well-being. The current study explored how the principles of perceptual control theory (PCT) could be used to develop a structured activity aimed at helping young people to talk to their parents about their goals and goal conflicts.PCT proposes that individuals function well when they are able to control things that are important to them. Every individual has numerous goals/wants and if two or more are incompatible, conflict arises. The current study focused on supporting young people to explore conflict that might arise due to incompatible goals held by them and their parent. Six families (child and parent/carer) were recruited to try a goal-setting and monitoring activity. The activity was facilitated by a Method of Levels researcher over a 10-week period. There were two follow-up appointments at 2 and 4 months. Two families were retained for the entire study. On completion, four families provided qualitative feedback. On the basis of participants’ feedback, the activity was modified to incorporate discussions on incompatible goals. Two families piloted the modified activity and provided feedback. Both families completed the study. Results suggest that a parent–child activity using the principles of PCT is feasible and acceptable among parents and young people.Key learning aims(1)To understand how the principles of PCT can be used to support young people in communicating with their parents.(2)To understand how talking about important goals/wants impacts young people and their parents.(3)To understand how the principles of PCT can be used to resolve parent–child conflict.