ABSTRACT
Theory and research have repeatedly underscored the importance of friendships in satisfying adoles cents’ desire for intimacy; enhancing their interpersonal skills, sensitivity, and understanding; and contributing to their cognitive and social development and psychological adjustment {Crockett, Losoff, & Petersen, 1984; Csikszentmihalyi & Larson, 1984; Hartup, 1996; Savin-Williams & Berndt, 1990). During adolescence, the significance of friendships becomes even more paramou nt as adoles cents begin to spend increased time with their friends (Crockett et al, 1984). However, despite the fact that friendships appear critical for all adolescents {Hinde, 1987; Patterson, Dishion, & Yoerger, 2000; Shorer, 1991), few studies have examined these processes among ethnic minority adolescents. Indeed, the vast majority of research on friendships has been conducted with White, middle-class adolescents, raising questions about the general inability of findings to ethnic minority and/or poor and working class adolescents.
