Adelaide University study links peer group belonging to adolescent resilience

New research from Adelaide University suggests that belonging to a peer group is a stronger predictor of resilience in adolescents than the support received from a single close friend. The study, led by Dr. Sarah Halliday and Bastian Miliotis, analyzed over 21,000 responses from South Australian public school students aged 15 to 18.

Published in the journal Youth & Society, the findings indicate that peer belonging remains a significant factor even when accounting for personal differences. Researchers suggest that being part of a wider group may expose teenagers to a broader range of resilient behaviors and coping skills through various role models.

Dr. Halliday noted that since approximately 50% of mental disorders develop before age 18, identifying protective factors like peer support is critical for facilitating wellbeing and helping young people transition into well-adjusted adulthood.