College Student Childhood Exposure to Parental Loyalty Conflicts

Abstract

A total of 157 college students completed an anonymous and confidential survey regarding their childhood exposure to parental loyalty conflict behaviors and to psychological maltreatment. Results revealed high levels of exposure to parental loyalty conflict behaviors. Elevated levels were found in those whose parents were divorced/separated and those who reported that–-regardless of marital status–-their parents’ relationship was very bad. Rates of 19 specific loyalty conflict behaviors were higher in those who reported that one parent tried to turn them against the other parent. Overall rates were associated with exposure to psychological maltreatment. Implications for social service providers are explored.