Predicting Responsibility Based on Epistemological Beliefs, Emotional Maturity, and Parent–Child Relationship Quality with the Mediating Role of Behavioral Emotion Regulation in Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: The present study aimed to examine the predictive roles of epistemological beliefs, emotional maturity, and parent–child relationship quality on adolescents’ responsibility, with a focus on the mediating role of behavioral emotion regulation.

Methodology: This study employed a descriptive-correlational design using structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of high school students in Tehran during the 2024 academic year, from which 420 participants were selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires measuring responsibility, epistemological beliefs, emotional maturity, parent–child relationship quality, and emotion regulation. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS-27 and AMOS-24, applying model fit indices and bootstrap procedures.

Findings: The results indicated that epistemological beliefs, emotional maturity, and parent–child relationship quality had significant direct effects on responsibility (p<0.01). Behavioral emotion regulation also significantly predicted responsibility (β=0.43, p<0.001). Indirect effects revealed that all predictor variables significantly influenced responsibility through behavioral emotion regulation (p<0.01). Model fit indices (RMSEA=0.051, CFI=0.93) confirmed a good model fit.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that adolescents’ responsibility is shaped by the interaction of cognitive, emotional, and family-related factors, with behavioral emotion regulation playing a crucial mediating role.