Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
The Influence of Parental Expectations on Self-Efficacy in Emerging Adulthood
Publication Date
11-24-2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Psychological Science, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Dr. Abigail Heller
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
The transition from adolescence into adulthood is, for many, one of the most challenging seasons of life, with many young people feeling like they are thrust suddenly into adulthood and the responsibilities that accompany their new social status (Refaeli et al., 2017). Research has shown that parents who continue to provide their emerging adult children with little opportunity for independence have a detrimental effect on the mental health and self-efficacy of their children (Cline & Fay, 1990). Self-efficacy is an individual’s belief in their ability to complete certain tasks (Bandura, 1977). Previous research has highlighted how parental expectations concerning academic achievement influence self-efficacy, but there is a lack of research on the relationship between self-efficacy and parental expectations of personal maturity (Givertz & Segrin, 2012). Parental expectations of personal maturity refer to a parent’s beliefs and attitudes regarding their child’s competence to succeed independently (Wang & Heppner, 2002). This study examined the relationship between parental expectations of personal maturity and self-efficacy among emerging adults. In this study, emerging adults recruited on Prolific (N = 50; Mage = 24.74) filled out a survey on Qualtrics that measured demographics, experiences with parental expectations of personal maturity, and general self-efficacy. Results indicated that higher levels of parental expectation were associated with higher levels of self-efficacy. Results suggest that parental expectations for success that leave room for growth and independence produce the best outcome, as children will generally live up to, or down to, their parents’ expectations.
Recommended Citation
Stewart, Isabel; Matthews, Kate; Gonzalez Castillo, Estrella; and Magro, Luke, "The Influence of Parental Expectations on Self-Efficacy in Emerging Adulthood" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 323.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/323
