Abstract
M.Ed.
The purpose of the study in this research was based on the exploration and description of adolescents' experiences on their needs and problems in interpersonal relationships with their parents. The main aim was to understand the feelings, perceptions and thoughts of adolescents and the way they felt about their parents' feelings, perceptions and thoughts of them. The research method that was followed was qualitative, explorative and descriptive. Data was gathered through observation, video taping, the taking of photographs and field notes, and also through activities such as workshops, group discussions, interviews and role-plays. The theoretical framework was done on interpersonal relationships and also experiential learning through observation, conversations, group discussions, interviews and role-plays. The most important part was the description of the guidelines and principles for a programme to facilitate constructive interpersonal relationships between adolescents and their parents. The concluding chapter describes how successful the study has been and the ,limitations experienced. It
also contains recommendations for the relevant institutions of study on providing
solutions to the problems discovered in the study. The most interesting part in this research indicates that parents have difficulties in handling their adolescents in a number of ways. During interview sessions with both the focus group and individuals, it is clear that once the children reach the adolescent stage, they turn to think, perceive and do things in a more independent approach, forgetting that they are still under the guidance and responsibility of their parents. At the same time parents tend to be harsh and respond to their adolescents in a way that encourages them to be stubborn and hard-headed, thereby negatively affecting the constructive interaction between parents and adolescents.The situation analysis of this study has led to the development of guidelines and principles that will guide a programme to facilitate constructive interpersonal
relationships. The focus of the guidelines and principles is on the initiation of a
programme to facilitate constructive interpersonal relationships. The focus of the
guidelines is based on the structure that reflects the description of how adolescents
should relate, interact and also communicate constructively with their parents. It also describes how parents should, on the other hand, respond to the feelings, perceptions and thoughts of their adolescents in a more constructive manner.