Teenage friendships are critical to determining wellbeing in adulthood, new research finds. 

An international study of 184 adolescents suggests that peer relationships in early and late adolescence play a significant role in shaping future social, mental, and physical health.

Researchers tracked teenagers aged 13-14 and 17-18, studying their friendships, perceived social acceptance, and how likeable they were considered by peers. 

They followed up with the participants as adults, aged 28-30, and found that early self-perception of social success was key to later wellbeing. 

Teens who believed they were liked by their peers had lower social anxiety, better physical health, and greater job and romantic satisfaction as adults.

“A teen’s perception of how broadly socially accepted they are by their peers in early adolescence is particularly influential in predicting adult wellbeing,” said lead researcher Emily Shah of the University of Arkansas.

For older teens aged 17-18, the quality of close friendships was more significant, reducing social anxiety and romantic insecurity while improving job satisfaction.

Dr David Szwedo of James Madison University noted that teenage friendships help develop skills needed for future relationships. 

“Friendships during the teenage years provide youth with one of their first forays into intimate consensual relationships,” he said.

The study highlights that broad peer acceptance is crucial for younger teens, while close friendships matter more for older teens. 

The timing of these relationships impacts later life, with early social success reducing anxiety and health issues.

The researchers emphasise that while these trends were clear, individual outcomes may vary. 

They also noted the need for further research, particularly considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on teenage social experiences.

The full study is accessible here.

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