ABSTRACT
As shown in the preceding chapter, the parent-adolescent relationship may serve as a source of stress or a source of support and encouragement for coping behavior. However, the increasing saliency of peer relationships during adolescence cannot be ignored (Sullivan, 1953; Youniss, 1980). For many adolescents, relationships with friends are critical interpersonal bridges that move them toward psychological growth and social maturity (Savin-Williams & Berndt, 1990). Having friends is an indication of healthiness, and parents are often worried if their children do not have close friends (Achenbach & Edelbrock, 1981 ). Several authors emphasized the positive effects of peers and close friends for adolescents. The peer group is seen as important in the transition to a new identity and close friends help each other to validate their views. Peers, and more specifically close friends, are not only willing to help each other, but invest their personal time and resources (Bigelow, 1977; Wright, 1984). Friends support perceptions of oneself as competent and enhance one's self-esteem. The exchange of ideas within a secure and accepting relationship is thus an additional provision and the hallmark of close relations between friends.
