01/03/2012
Teens who more openly express their own viewpoints in discussions with their moms, even if their viewpoints disagree, are more likely than others to resist peer pressure to use drugs or drink. That’s one of the findings of a new longitudinal study led by Joseph Allen, Youth-Nex Associate Director, and Professor of Psychology. The researchers looked at more than 150 teens and their parents, a group that was racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse. The teens were studied at ages 13, 15, and 16 to gather information on substance use, interactions with moms, social skills, and close friendships. Researchers used not just the youths’ own reports, but information from parents and peers. They also observed teens’ social interactions with family members and peers. They found that teens who hold their own in family discussions were better at standing up to peer influences to use drugs or alcohol. “It may be that teens who are secure in their ability to turn to their mothers under stress are less likely to end up feeling overly dependent upon their close friends, and thus less likely to be influenced by their friend’s behavior when it’s negative,” notes Allen. Arguing well was defined as trying to persuade their mothers with reasoned arguments, rather than with pressure, whining, or insults. Those who seemed best protected were the ones who were able to argue well about touchy topics such as grades, household rules, friends and money. “The healthy autonomy they’d established at home seemed to carry over into their relationships with peers,” suggests Allen.
Listen to NPR story.
Other Press: USA Today, WebMD, MSNBC.com, IndianExpress.com, CBC/Canada - Radio, Dalje.com Arizona Daily Star WGN interview, Southbend Tribune, Evansville Courier and Press
