IMPACT OF PARENTING STYLE AND RELIGIOUS ATTACHMENT ON ADOLESCENTS’ MENTAL HEALTH: A CASE STUDY FOCUSING ON NORTH MACEDONIAN YOUTH

Abstract

Religion can play a significant role in determining family traditions, roles, and human behaviours. Many studies have shown the indisputable relationships between these factors and the impact that they can have on one another. Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between parenting styles and religious attachment, and their impact on adolescents’ mental health in a traditional cultural context. It examines how religious devotion interacts with adolescents’ perceptions of parenting styles in relation to their mental well-being. Methodology: The study involves a non-randomly selected sample of 629 adolescents who participated in surveys, which were available in both Albanian and Macedonian to ensure broader representation. Standardised instruments and parametric statistical tests were used for data analysis. Results: The results show that the authoritative parenting style, characterised by responsiveness and involvement, is associated with stronger religious attachment and more positive mental health outcomes, compared to the permissive or authoritarian styles. The findings imply that, in the North Macedonian community, religion influences both parenting practices and adolescent mental health, highlighting the importance of considering cultural and spiritual factors in youth development.