Robinson, Oliver ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6758-2223, Dutta, Oindrila ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2925-2477, Collins, Erin, Whiffing, Charlie and Carey, Karen (2026) Self-concealment from parents in emerging adulthood: a qualitative survey study of experiences and motivations. Emerging Adulthood. pp. 1-13. ISSN 2167-6968 (Print), 2167-6984 (Online) (doi:10.1177/21676968261455377)

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Abstract

Self-concealment refers to intentional concealing of personal thoughts, feelings, or behaviours from others. This study explored the experiences and motivations behind self-concealment among UK-based emerging adults (18–29 years), with a focus on concealment from parents. We aimed to identify what young adults report hiding from their parents and why. A qualitative survey design was used. In total, 146 participants completed the closed-ended question, and 63 provided written responses for qualitative analysis. Structured Tabular Thematic Analysis (ST-TA) was used to analyse the brief textual data. Findings indicated that 76% of participants engaged in self-concealment from their parents. Concealed content spanned mental health, romantic relationships, academic difficulties, finances, and substance use. Motivations included protecting parents from worry or disappointment, avoiding conflict, cultural expectations, and maintaining privacy or independence. The study highlights the relational and developmental functions of self-concealment and suggests implications for promoting open, trusting communication between emerging adults and their parents.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	self-concealment, emerging adulthood, authenticity, persona, motivation, parenting, parents
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > School of Human Sciences (HUM)
Last Modified:	29 May 2026 16:00
URI:	https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/53630

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