When Peers Matter: Peer Communication and the Association Between Parental Dependence and Superiority Cognitions

When Peers Matter: Peer Communication and the Association Between Parental Dependence and Superiority Cognitions

Alvin Sherman Library

Although parent-child relationships have been widely studied during childhood and adolescence, less attention has been given to how these relationships continue to influence adjustment during emerging adulthood. This developmental period is marked by instability and exploration, as young adults begin transitioning into adult roles such as higher education, employment, and long-term relationships. Research suggests that parenting continues to matter during this time, with successful separation-individuation representing a normative developmental task. Excessive parental dependence, however, may be associated with maladjustment. At the same time, peers play an increasingly important role in emerging adulthood, and positive peer relationships are often linked to better emotional adjustment. Despite this, little research has examined how parent-child and peer relationships jointly influence adjustment outcomes. The present study explored whether peer communication moderates the relationship between parental dependence and maladaptive cognitions of superiority in emerging adulthood. Participants were 244 emerging adults aged 18-25 years (M = 20.04; 198 women). Parental dependence was assessed using the Psychological Separation Inventory, which measures functional, emotional, attitudinal, and conflictual dependence. Peer communication was measured using items from the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment, and cognitions of superiority were assessed using the Superiority Scale. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that functional, emotional, and attitudinal dependence significantly moderated the association between peer communication and cognitions of superiority beliefs. These findings suggest that positive peer communication, when combined with high parental dependence, may contribute to maladaptive self-views during emerging adulthood. Although causal conclusions cannot be drawn, the results highlight the continued importance of parent-child relationships during this development period.