Academic Achievement of High School Students in Relation to Parent and Peer Attachment

Abstract

The parent-child relationship affects the growth and development of the adolescent shaping personality, self-concept, social self, and other developmental aspects. This study focused on exploring adolescents' relationships with their parents and peers, and the impact on academic performance. The sample (N = 1122) consisted of adolescents aged 16-18 year old females (N = 622) and males (N = 500) from Albanian high schools. The research was conducted using descriptive and correlational research design methods. Data collection was done through self-reported questionnaires focusing on attachment styles and grade point average (GPA). The results indicated a significant correlation between adolescents' attachment to their parents and their peers. Results further indicated that attachment to parents has a stronger positive relationship with academic achievement when compared to peer attachment. In conclusion, a secure parent attachment has a positive correlation with secure attachment to peers and higher academic performance. The study serves as an empirical basis for taking initiatives towards the enhancement of child-parent relationships which may affect positive relationships with peers as well as academic performance.