This product is available in two versions:

07776 - A Parent's Guide to Teens: The Growing Season Book To Order
07607 - A Parent's Guide to Teens: The Growing Season Video (on VHS) and Guide To Order

NOTE: This is a Web Sampler. Information about the complete publication and how to order it is available for the Book and Video and Guide.

Return to the main page for this sampler

Friends and Peers

Friends are everything to teens. Parents can help their teen find the way through the maze of friends, peers, and the popular group.

Teens and Their Close Friendships

The importance of friends to teens is well documented. Teens often describe their best friends as the ones who "understand exactly how I feel and will stick by me no matter what." They also indicate that a best friend treats them as an equal and is someone they trust enough to share dreams, fears, and embarrassing moments with.

Following are some hints you may find helpful when talking to your teens about keeping friends, changing friends, and making new friends.

Keeping Friends

Teens, just like adults, often say, "a good friend is hard to come by." Being a good friend is the best way for your teen to keep a friend. Remind your teen that a good way to judge how to treat best friends is to ask "Would I like my friend to do that to me?"

Tips for keeping friends.

• Share with each other.
• Work out conflicts and find compromises.
• Enjoy common interests together.
• Be a good listener.
• Be supportive.
• Help your friends feel good about themselves.

Getting the most out of the Friends and Peers video segment

While you watch the video think about:

• The importance of friends in your teen's life.
• The influence you, peers, and others have on your teen.
• Ways to help your teen fit into different groups.
• How to help your teen deal with peer pressure.

After viewing, discuss the information with your partner, teen, and others.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact your University of Minnesota Extension office or the Extension Store at (800) 876-8636.