Development of coping resources in chilhood and adolescence

the works here presented show the importance of primary relationships in the development of positive resources to cope with menace and that interactions with peers during childhood and early adolescence reflect patterns learnt within the family. when children feel accepted by their parents they find it easier to adapt; while a relationship which is perceived as inappropriate, particularly if it is experienced as distant, is usually associated with non-adaptive coping, such as inhibition. the most common negative relationship between mother and child seems to be the former's distancing; in the case of the father, once his influence becomes more significant, there is hostility as well as distancing. lastly, social primary interactions appear to have a remarkable influence, especially on impulsiveness, aggressive behaviour and lack of attention in children. apparently, it seems quite clear that parents' the mother's in particular, and peer perception interact to shape the child's behaviour. finally, the relationship with a mother with a permissive style which fosters autonomy, defends adolescents from feelings of deep loneliness.