Perceptions of interdependence and closeness in family and peer relationships among adolescents with and without romantic partners.

Abstract

Adolescents' relationships with mothers, fathers, siblings, friends, and romantic partners are examined. Across the adolescent years, interdependence (operationalized in terms of social interaction, activities, and influence) and perceived closeness shift from parents to peers, with patterns that differ somewhat for adolescents with and without a romantic partner. The findings are discussed in the context of sodal exchange theory, which offers a descriptive account of developmental variations in adolescent close relationships.