Author(s): Asha Singh

Abstract:
This study explores the impact of family meals and communication patterns on the mental health of adolescents in urban and rural settings. Adolescence is a critical period for emotional and psychological development, and the role of the family in shaping mental health outcomes is well established. The present research involved 100 adolescents (50 urban and 50 rural), aged 13-18 years, using stratified random sampling. Standardized tools such as the Family Meal Frequency Scale, Parent-Adolescent Communication Scale, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were employed to collect data. The findings revealed that rural adolescents have more frequent family meals and better communication with their parents compared to urban adolescents. Moreover, these factors were significantly associated with better mental health outcomes. A strong negative correlation was observed between open communication and emotional or behavioral difficulties. The study concludes that regular family interactions and effective communication contribute positively to adolescent mental well-being, with rural adolescents benefiting more from these for family-centered interventions, particularly in urban areas, to strengthen adolescent mental health.