How Teens Make Friends: What the Research Says
Although parents are an important source of guidance and support, adolescents are trying to move toward independence. They rely on their parents for material support and stability, but are less likely to seek their parents' views on present and future issues (Douvan and Adelson 1966, p. 174). Because friendship offers equality, it is often seen as more desirable than relationships with parents in which there is a clear power structure (Youniss, 1980). During early adolescence, North American kids reduce time spent with family by 50% (Westen, 1996, p. 547).