Peer groups are super important for shaping who we are as we grow up, especially during our teenage years. I've experienced this myself and have seen it in others too. Here are a few ways that friends influence us during this important time in our lives:
Social Norms and Behaviors: Friends help us learn what’s cool or normal. We often change how we act to fit in—like the music we listen to, the clothes we wear, or even the words we use. I remember using certain slang just to feel like part of the group.
Exploration of Roles: Being a teenager is about trying out different parts of yourself. Friends give us a safe place to see what it feels like to be different types of people, like the “funny one” or the “athletic one.” This helped me discover parts of my personality that I didn't know were there.
Conflict and Comparison: Let’s face it, being a teenager can come with competition and conflicts with friends. This can make us think about ourselves and grow. I've had times when comparing myself to my friends pushed me to try harder, whether it was in school or in social situations.
Emotional Support: Friends often become our biggest helpers when times are tough. Having good friendships can boost our confidence and help us deal with challenges. I’ve leaned on my friends during stressful times, and that helped me understand what really matters to me.
In summary, friends play a big part in shaping who we are. Being a teenager is all about trying new things, making mistakes, and learning more about ourselves.
Peer groups are super important for shaping who we are as we grow up, especially during our teenage years. I've experienced this myself and have seen it in others too. Here are a few ways that friends influence us during this important time in our lives:
Social Norms and Behaviors: Friends help us learn what’s cool or normal. We often change how we act to fit in—like the music we listen to, the clothes we wear, or even the words we use. I remember using certain slang just to feel like part of the group.
Exploration of Roles: Being a teenager is about trying out different parts of yourself. Friends give us a safe place to see what it feels like to be different types of people, like the “funny one” or the “athletic one.” This helped me discover parts of my personality that I didn't know were there.
Conflict and Comparison: Let’s face it, being a teenager can come with competition and conflicts with friends. This can make us think about ourselves and grow. I've had times when comparing myself to my friends pushed me to try harder, whether it was in school or in social situations.
Emotional Support: Friends often become our biggest helpers when times are tough. Having good friendships can boost our confidence and help us deal with challenges. I’ve leaned on my friends during stressful times, and that helped me understand what really matters to me.
In summary, friends play a big part in shaping who we are. Being a teenager is all about trying new things, making mistakes, and learning more about ourselves.