Psychosocial predictors of family values among undergraduate students in a South African University

Abstract

This study investigated the psychosocial predictors of family values among undergraduate students in a South African University. Studies have shown that family values among Africans generally vary from one family to the other, and are influenced by the values of the ethnic groups to which the individuals belong. In Africa, traditional family values and ethos have been influenced by modernization and post-modernisation ethos, and therefore, understanding psychosocial variables that determine the family values young adults hold should be valuable especially in these days of social networking processes that are partly the unintended consequences of globalization. Data was collected using a family value validated questionnaire administered on a random sample of 200 undergraduate students. All participants were randomly sampled using a table of random numbers. The validated questionnaire has four sections. The results showed that age, and combined psychosocial parameters were valid predictors of family values, but gender was not. The statistically observed dynamics in family structure and relationships are reported. Some of the results are particularly important for young adults and their parents in terms of family management and conflict issues. In conclusion, some recommendations were made in line with the study's findings.