Family Functionality and its Effects on Environmental Mastery and Positive Relations Among Malaysian Secondary Students

Abstract

This study examined the influence of family functionality on psychological well-being dimensions among Malaysian secondary school students. Specifically, it investigated how family functionality affects environmental mastery and positive relations with others. Using a cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 180 students across three secondary schools in Perak, Malaysia through structured questionnaires based on Olsen and Gorell's family functionality framework and Ryff's psychological well-being scales. Structural equation modelling revealed that family functionality significantly predicted both environmental mastery (β = 0.344, p < 0.001) and positive relations with others (β = 0.335, p < 0.001), explaining approximately 12% and 11% of their variance respectively. These findings highlight the critical role of functional family environments in developing adolescents' psychological resources for managing their surroundings and building healthy relationships. Educational stakeholders should consider family-centered interventions to enhance adolescent psychological development, particularly in predominantly Malay communities where family structures significantly influence youth development.