Peer Relationships

As children grow into teenagers, they spend more and more time with friends. Their relationships with friends become increasingly important. These relationships have a major influence on the behaviour and values of adolescents. Peer pressure comes into consideration during this time also. It can influence teens to engage in behaviours they may or may not have ever considered before – this can have a positive or negative effect. It is important to note the emerging level of peer relationships called crowds.

Crowds are large groups of adolescents socially connected by a shared image and reputation (Brown, 2004). They are based on peer status, socioeconomic status, residential area, activities, social characteristics, or a contribution of attributes (jocks, nerds, populars, and druggies, are among most commonly observed). (Brown, 2004; Mory, 1994; Arnett, 2002).