January 22, 1999 For Immediate Release

University of Northern British Columbia researchers are in the middle of a unique research project that examines communication styles and relationships between parents and their teenage/adult children.

"Most of the research on teenagers and their relationships with their parents is from the United States," says Sherry Beaumont, UNBC Psychology professor. "What we're trying to do is apply a new theory: parent-child conflict can be the result of differences in conversational styles; not simply a power struggle between parents and children."

Dr Beaumont and masters student Capreece Bowers have already surveyed nearly 30 average families in the Prince George area. Another 50 families are being sought to participate by completing a questionnaire and having a conversation taped. To participate, residents can contact 960-6062. Parents and their adolescent (13-16 year old) or young adult (20-35 year old) sons or daughters are invited to take part.

"The families who help us out will be contributing to a better understanding of how parents and children communicate," says Dr Beaumont. "Children often complain that communication with parents is difficult, and their parents often report that they just aren't getting through to their children. This research will shed some light on how things should be said, rather than what is said."

The research is being funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. The University was recently ranked #1 among small universities by Maclean's magazine for its research in the social sciences and humanities.