Does the Quality of Parent and Peer Relationships and Religiosity Predict Self-Control and Flourishing in Emerging Adult College Students?

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine how the intersectionality of the variables parental relationships, peer relationships, religiosity and susceptibility of control are predictors of self-control and flourishing in college. Self-control is a predictor of many aspects of flourishing behavior and positive outcomes in college. Understanding what predicts self-control can bolster interventions that lead to successful outcomes for college students. Jeffrey Arnett named the years, 18–25, Emerging Adulthood, because they are a distinct developmental period between Adolescence and Early Adulthood. The developmental tasks in this stage focus on the Emerging Adult’s exploration of self, career, worldview, and love. This study will be viewed through the lens of his theory with an emphasis on college students who are enrolled in an academic program that leads to obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Identifying the variables that contribute to the development of self-control and flourishing can be instrumental in designing programs with effective outcomes for the college student. Also, understanding the predictors can be useful to the mental health counselor in a therapeutic setting where a goal is to change maladaptive behaviors and relationships that contribute to a lack of self-control and flourishing.