The Long-Term Effects of Emotional Neglect on Family Functioning and Anxiety Symptoms in Adolescents

Purpose: Parental emotional neglect has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety symptoms, but the mechanisms driving this connection remain insufficiently understood, especially in adolescence, a pivotal stage for mental health during which relationships with family members and emotional experiences significantly influence psychological outcomes. This study explores how emotional neglect, adolescents’ perceptions of family functioning (APFF), and anxiety symptoms interact over time in adolescents. Methods: A sample of 1,866 Italian adolescents (mean age = 15.51, SD = 1.10) participated in a longitudinal study, with assessments conducted at three time points: baseline (Time 1), six months later (Time 2), and another six months later (Time 3). Using structural equation modeling, we examined reciprocal influences and potential mediation effects. Results: Findings showed that emotional neglect at Time 1 negatively impacted both APFF and anxiety symptoms at Time 2. In turn, APFF at Time 2 predicted anxiety symptoms at Time 3. Mediation analyses revealed that emotional neglect at Time 1 influenced anxiety symptoms at Time 3 via emotional neglect at Time 2, APFF at Time 2, and anxiety symptoms at Time 2. Similarly, APFF at Time 1 predicted anxiety symptoms at Time 3 through APFF at Time 2 and anxiety symptoms at Time 2. Conclusions: These results highlight the role of emotional trauma and family relationships in shaping mental health trajectories, demonstrating that dysfunctional family environments can intensify mental health issues. The study underscores the importance of early interventions aimed at addressing emotional neglect, strengthening family support systems, and improving communication to help mitigate adolescent anxiety.