The effects of communication patterns in the family on adolescents' level of popularity in school

Family is the most important factor affecting the social development of an adolescent. The aim of this study is to point out the connection between the communication patterns in the family and an adolescent's social development, and popularity at school. The study was conducted with 178 adolescents aged between 12-15 and their families by using inventories. To determine the popularity of the adolescents at school, a digitized version of sociometry was used. Using this test, the popularity level of each adolescent at school was determined by looking at their scores. "Family Assessment Scale" was used to determine the communication patterns inside the families. When the results of the tests were statistically examined, a positive correlation was observed between level of popularity and some subscales of Family Assessment Scale such as roles, ability to show emotional reactions, and showing the necessary interest whereas a negative correlation was observed between popularity levels and the total score obtained on Family Assessment Scale. As a result of the T-test conducted, a meaningful correlation between gender, and some subscales of Family Assessment Scale such as behavioral conduct and showing the necessary interest was detected. The findings of this study were discussed by taking their utilities and restrictions into account.