Vjollca Martinson

Albanian Family of Origin and Adult Children's Relationship Quality: the Effects of Family-of-origin Factors on Adult Children's Relationship Quality Vjollca Martinson

This study examined the relationship between family-of-origin factors (the quality of parent-child relationship, the quality of parents' marriage, and the quality of the childhood environment) and couple relationship quality among a sample of Albanian individuals who were currently living in the United States. Results revealed similarity with and variation from research done with the U. S. samples. Not all of the family-of-origin variables that were found to be significant in predicting relationship quality for U. S. couples were significant for Albanian couples. Significance was found only between father-child relationship and females' relationship quality, as well as between overall evaluation of family processes and females' relationship satisfaction. The overall effects of the Albanian family-of-origin variables were significant in predicting females' relationship satisfaction and males' relationship stability. It is suggested that explanations of the findings are rooted on cultural differences. Findings are especially helpful for family therapists and educators who work with different populations, as they increase cultural and research awareness.