Parental psychological control and school engagement in adolescents: A longitudinal study

This longitudinal study examines the role of psychological control on adolescents’ school engagement over time, addressing the critical role of parental influence in shaping students’ academic experiences. The research, conducted in Italy with 100 adolescents aged 13-18, employs the Self-Determination Theory framework to explore the relationships between psychological control and school engagement. Findings reveal that parental psychological control at Time 1 is negatively associated with school engagement at Time 2. Using a cross-lagged model, the study reveals a long-term effect of psychological control on student school engagement, consistent with existing literature. The results emphasize the detrimental impact of parental psychological control on adolescents’ engagement and highlight the importance of autonomy-supportive parenting practices for fostering students’ academic success and psychological well-being. This study contributes to the understanding of parental influences on school engagement and emphasizes the need for interventions and support systems that promote positive parental involvement in adolescents’ educational development.