A Model of Positive Family and Peer Relationships on Adolescent Functioning

This study proposes a cross-sectional model of positive family and peer relationships on school misbehavior and health and well-being in adolescence. Students (n = 20,749, 50.6 % girls, 43.9 % black, 67 % middle school, 56 % free/reduced price lunches) completed the school success profile in the classroom. A structural equation model was estimated using Mplus. After controlling for non-independence of observations due to clustering (n = 318 schools) and individual-level variables (age, socio-economic status, gender), family togetherness (β = .52, p < .001), parent behavioral expectations (β = .07, p < .05), and friend support (β = .12, p < .001) were associated with greater health and well-being; parent behavioral expectations (β = −.25, p < .001) and friend support (β = −.11, p < .001) were associated with less school misbehavior. Family relationships were mediated through adolescents’ susceptibility to peer pressure (health and well-being, β = −.34, p < .001; school misbehavior, β = .16, p < .001). That families and friends play critical roles in different adolescent outcomes and work through an individual vulnerability suggests a number of practice implications that are discussed.