Perceived Generational Gap and Interpersonal Difficulties as Predictors of Deviant Behaviour in Young Adults
Contributors
- Sheerien Sakina Maryam BS Clinical Psychology Student, Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Professional Psychology, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
- Rameesha Khan BS Clinical Psychology Student, Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Professional Psychology, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
- Sehrish Baig BS Clinical Psychology Student, Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Professional Psychology, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
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Nafeesa Javed
Lecturer, Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Professional Psychology, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-2192-3076
Abstract
The generational gap between young adults and older generations has emerged as a significant psychosocial concern, with implications for interpersonal functioning and behavioural outcomes. This study investigated the relationship between perceived generational gap, interpersonal difficulties, and deviant behaviour in young adults and identified significant predictors of deviant behaviour. A cross-sectional correlational research design was employed, involving 400 university students (200 males and 200 females) aged 18 to 26 years, recruited through convenience sampling from public and private universities in Lahore, Pakistan. Data were collected using a demographic information sheet and three indigenously developed and psychometrically validated instruments: the Perceived Generational Gap Scale (Sarwar & Javed, 2023), Interpersonal Difficulties Scale (Saleem & Mahmood, 2014), and Deviant Behaviour Scale (Mushtaq & Kausar, 2018). Correlational analysis revealed significant positive correlations between perceived generational gap, interpersonal difficulties, and deviant behaviour. However, the communication breakdown subscale of perceived generational gap demonstrated a significant negative correlation with deviant behaviour. Multiple linear regression analysis identified communication breakdown as a significant negative predictor of deviant behaviour, whereas low self-confidence and unstable relationships emerged as significant positive predictors. Overall, perceived generational gap was also identified as a significant positive predictor of deviant behaviour among young adults. The findings highlight the role of perceived generational gap and interpersonal difficulties in shaping behavioural outcomes. The study emphasizes the importance of preventive clinical and counselling interventions, including culturally informed strategies targeting intergenerational conflicts and interpersonal dysfunction, to address deviant behaviour and support the psychosocial well-being of young adults
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Corresponding Author
Nafeesa Javed
Lecturer, Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Professional Psychology, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
Corresponding Author: [email protected]
