Examining the relationship between adolescents' prosocial behaviors, interpersonal problem-solving skills and communication skills

The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between adolescents' prosocial behaviors, interpersonal problem-solving skills, and communication skills. The relational survey model, one of the quantitative research types, was used to examine the presence and degree of relationship between two or more variables without intervening in the variables. The study involved 385 students from high schools in Istanbul during the 2023-2024 academic year, with representation from each grade level using the "Stratified Simple Random Sampling" method. Demographic characteristics of the students were obtained through a "Personal Information Form." The "Adolescent Prosociality Scale" was used to determine prosocial behavior tendencies, the "Interpersonal Problem Solving Inventory" was used to measure interpersonal problem-solving skills, and the "Communication Skills Assessment Scale" was used to assess communication skills. The data obtained in the study were analyzed using SPSS 27 software. The level and direction of the relationship between the scales were examined using the Pearson Correlation method. Independent Samples t-tests and ANOVA tests were used to understand the differences in scales according to demographic variables. Simple Linear Regression was preferred for predictive analysis. All these statistical analyses were conducted with a 95% confidence interval and a significance level of p < 0.05. According to the analyses of the data obtained in the study, it was observed that as adolescents' prosociality levels increased, their communication skills and constructive problem-solving skills increased, along with an increase in persistent-determined approach, while on the contrary, self-doubt and irresponsibility decreased. Additionally, when prosociality and communication skills levels of adolescents were compared by gender, it was found that females had higher averages than males. When interpersonal problem-solving skills were examined by gender, it was observed that males had higher averages than females in the self-doubt subscale, and when examined by age, it was observed that those aged 13 scored higher than others. Understanding the relationships between adolescents' prosocial behaviors, interpersonal problem-solving, and communication skills will be crucial for designing and implementing interventions aimed at promoting adolescents' social adjustment and well-being. Additionally, it is believed that the identified direction and levels of relationships will contribute to the literature.