Uncovering Parental Challenges During the Child-Adolescent Transition: A Grounded Theory Analysis of Emerging Issues.

BACKGROUND: The transition from childhood to adolescence brings significant developmental changes that challenge family relationships and parenting practices. Although parents play a key role in supporting adolescents, their experiences and challenges during this transition remain underexplored, particularly in non-Western contexts. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a grounded theory of emerging parental challenges. METHODS: This qualitative study employed a grounded theory approach to explore parental challenges during their children's transition to adolescence. The sample included ten families (20 participants; ten couples) with adolescents aged 14-18 years in Tehran, Iran (2024-2025). Participants were recruited through purposive sampling until theoretical saturation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed following the grounded theory approach of Corbin and Strauss, using open, axial, and selective coding. This rigorous analytical process facilitated the systematic development of codes, subthemes, and overarching themes that captured the participants' experiences. RESULTS: Open coding generated 59 initial codes, which were condensed into 10 subthemes through axial coding and synthesized into 4 main themes via selective coding: (1) internal transformations during puberty, capturing parents' management of adolescents' emotional and behavioral changes; (2) educational and cultural foundations, highlighting parental practices and creation of safe developmental spaces; (3) barriers and interventions in personal transformation, reflecting environmental pressures shaping adolescent choices; and (4) support and guidance models, emphasizing empathetic communication, fostering independence, and strengthening family capacities. CONCLUSIONS: The findings underscore the critical role of families and communities in supporting adolescents' development. Structured guidance, emotional support, and culturally sensitive parenting strategies are essential for facilitating a balanced transition and fostering adolescents' personal and social growth.