Journal of Nonformal Education
Vol. 12 No. 1 (2026): Community empowerment and Adult education

Deconstructing Matrilineal Parenting: A Role-Specific Analysis of Authoritative, Authoritarian, and Permissive Practices

MHD Natsir (Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia)
Melvina Melvina (Universitas PGRI Sumatera Barat, Indonesia)
Ahmad Jazimin Jusoh (Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia)
Marina Lidya (STIE Pembangunan Tanjungpinang, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: While matrilineal parenting influences adolescent character, Western-derived parenting typologies are often applied monolithically, obscuring nuanced, role-specific practices within kinship-based systems. Aim: This study examines how parenting practices by mothers, fathers, and maternal uncles (mamak) are differentially associated with twelve adolescent character strengths in Minangkabau, Indonesia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 296 primary caregivers used a culturally contextualized questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test multivariate relationships between nine parenting dimensions (three practices × three caregivers) and character outcomes. Results: Mother’s authoritative practices positively predicted all character strengths. Mamak’s authoritarian practices displayed dual effects: positively predicting discipline and respect but negatively predicting honesty and creativity. Father’s authoritative practices fostered independence and confidence, while his permissiveness was particularly detrimental. Discussion/Implication: Findings reveal a specialized “parenting ensemble,” where effects depend on the cultural legitimacy of the caregiver’s role. This challenges universal parenting models and suggests family support programs must be role-specific: strengthening authoritative communication universally, refining the mamak’s disciplinary approach, and clarifying the father’s unique supportive niche to holistically foster adolescent character

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jone

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

Journal of Nonformal Education is an journal with open access, a journal supported by a board of experts from various ...