As a teenager, my desire for specific clothing choices was not driven by a lack of individuality or a keen fashion sense. Rather, it stemmed from a wish to avoid drawing attention to myself. I instinctively believed that blending in was essential for social security. I craved recognition for my involvement in drama and music clubs, and even my modest attempts at sports, but when it came to appearance, I preferred to look like my peers. A day spent looking like every other girl was, in my view, a successful one.
Recent research published in the journal Psychological Science supports my instinctual inclination to fit in. A study conducted by psychologists at the University of Virginia revealed that teenagers who align themselves with their peers may experience better health outcomes as adults. The researchers tracked adolescents from ages 13 to 17, gathering insights about their same-sex friendships and their adherence to peer norms. Years later, they followed up with these individuals in their mid-20s, assessing their physical and emotional health.
The findings indicated that those who reported having close friendships during their teenage years and showed a tendency to conform to social norms experienced improved health in adulthood. This suggests that adolescent conformity may be an instinctive behavior linked to overall well-being. As noted by researcher Tom Jacobs, the strong focus on peer relationships during adolescence can be attributed to an instinctive understanding that these connections are vital for one’s health.
Reflecting on my own experience, I often felt a sense of inadequacy for not striving to stand out more during my middle and high school years. I blended seamlessly into a group of fellow drama enthusiasts, a subculture with its own set of social norms. Interestingly, the UVA study’s results align with previous research indicating that teenagers in niche subcultures, such as 1980s heavy-metal fans, often transitioned into happy and productive adults. Their conformity to their peer group provided them with comfort and support.
This understanding underscores the potential benefits of fitting in with peers. While I aim to encourage my children to embrace their individuality and disregard others’ opinions, it is essential to recognize our inherent social nature. As adults, we still conform to societal expectations; for instance, we wouldn’t attend a formal event in jeans, regardless of our personal style.
The primary concern for both teenagers and adults remains social isolation. Jacobs emphasizes that while adolescence is a critical phase for discovering unique talents and interests, parents who overly pressure their children toward individuality might inadvertently increase the risk of future health issues. Therefore, I won’t be overly concerned if my son chooses to wear the same clothing as his classmates or opts to conform to group norms, as long as it does not conflict with ethical standards. Establishing strong friendships within their peer culture is beneficial, even if it means a shopping trip to a popular retail store.
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In summary, embracing the role of a follower during adolescence can have positive effects on long-term health and well-being. It is crucial for parents to support their teens in forming healthy peer relationships, fostering a sense of belonging while allowing them space to explore their individuality.