The Impact of Parental Technoference Towards Emotional Behavioural Adjustment among Malaysian Adolescents

Mohd Zuwairi Bin Mat Saad, Joyce Cheah Lyn-Sze, Haslina Halim, Farah Lina Azizan, Nur Nabilah Ibrahim

Abstract


In an increasingly digitalised world, parental technoference the disruption of parent-child interactions due to parental use of technology, has emerged as a growing concern. This study explores the impact of parental technoference on the emotional and behavioural adjustment of Malaysian adolescents. As parents become more engrossed in digital devices, their responsiveness to children's emotional and social needs may decline, potentially leading to adverse psychological outcomes. Drawing from Attachment Theory, this research investigates how parental distraction affects adolescent emotional regulation, behavioural tendencies, and overall well-being. Existing studies suggest that excessive parental screen time can lead to increased teenage anxiety, depressive symptoms, and externalising behaviours such as aggression and defiance. This study employs a qualitative method approach, involving semi-structured focus group interviews with Malaysian adolescents aged 13–18, to assess their perceptions of parental technoference and its effects on their emotional adjustment. Findings are expected to highlight a significant correlation between high levels of parental technoference and negative emotional-behavioural outcomes among adolescents. The results could inform parenting strategies, promoting mindful digital usage and emphasising the importance of quality parent-child interactions. By understanding the implications of technoference, policymakers, educators, and parents can work together to foster healthier familial relationships and support adolescent psychological well-being in the digital era.

 

Keywords: Parental technoference, emotional behavioural adjustment, adolescent, technology, attachment theory.

 

https://doi.org/10.17576/JKMJC-2026-4201-08


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