Predicting Youth Information Management in Emerging Adulthood from Parental Mindfulness and Social Support

The current study examines associations between mindful parenting, family support, and youth information management practices (disclosure, lying, and secrecy) in a diverse sample of college-attending emerging adults (n = 304). Participants were recruited through college classes, and students completed surveys in classrooms or in nearby campus spaces. Data were analyzed to assess for the potential interactive implications of parental mindfulness and support. Results indicate that both parenting variables are important to consider when conceptualizing emerging adults’ information management. Youth who reported the highest levels of parental mindfulness and support also disclosed the most to their parents about their daily activities. In contrast, youth who reported the lowest levels of mindfulness and support lied the most to their parents. Low support was also associated with increased secrecy. Results suggest that parent-youth relationships continue to be important through the emerging adult developmental period, especially in terms of promoting communication practices that can help youth adjust to their increasingly complex worlds.