DOHA: Strong family bonds, emotional support and open communication play a central role in promoting adolescents’ psychological and social well-being, according to the Doha International Family Institute (DIFI), which has highlighted the importance of building cohesive families amid rapid social and technological changes.
DIFI in its recent newsletter said that family cohesion is not simply determined by family members living together or the amount of time they spend under one roof, but by the quality of relationships, communication, mutual respect, emotional support, shared responsibilities and participation in decision-making.
According to data cited by DIFI, 97.13 percent of family members said they enjoy spending time together, while 97.77 percent reported that family members support one another. Meanwhile, 95.01 percent expressed satisfaction with the quality of communication within their families, and 98.89 percent said they feel a strong sense of belonging to their families.
The findings also point to the importance of parents’ presence and emotional support in adolescents’ lives. DIFI said 57 percent of parents spend approximately 30 hours a week with their children, while 71.56 percent of adolescents receive emotional support from their fathers.
DIFI stressed that adolescent well-being extends beyond academic achievement and material resources, encompassing psychological well-being, quality of life, family relationships, a sense of belonging and confidence in building the future.
It added that spending more time with children does not automatically translate into family cohesion. Rather, meaningful interaction based on dialogue, emotional support and mutual respect is key to strengthening family relationships.
Similarly, meeting adolescents’ material needs alone cannot guarantee their well-being. According to DIFI, emotional security, effective communication and a sense of belonging are equally important in helping young people develop and navigate challenges.
The institute urged parents to encourage open dialogue with their children, particularly adolescents, listen attentively to their concerns and make time for meaningful family interactions away from distractions.
Parents were also encouraged to provide emotional support through appreciation and active listening, participate in activities and interests with their children, and involve them in appropriate family decisions to develop their confidence and sense of responsibility.
DIFI cautioned against allowing electronic devices and social media to replace direct family communication, relying on constant criticism, or dismissing children’s feelings and opinions.
Among its recommendations, the institute called for guidance programmes to strengthen parents’ skills in adopting positive parenting approaches.
