From childhood to adolescence, peer relationships are a source of support, friendship, and advice.[1] Peer relationships also play a major role in a child's social and emotional development.[2] The quality of the relationship can have either positive or negative effects on mental health and well-being.[1] Research shows that children who have problems with their peers are more likely to experience problems in school (e.g., school dropout, lower grades) and emotional problems (e.g., depression, anxiety).[2],[3],[4]
Data related to relationships with peers includes one indicator:
[1] Edge, H.M., & Craig, W. (2012). Peers. Ottawa, ON: Public Health Agency of Canada. Available at: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/hp-ps/dca-dea/publications/hbsc-mental-mentale/peers-camarades-eng.php
[2] Boivin, M. (2014). Peer relations. Montreal, Quebec: Encyclopedia on Early Childhood Experiences. Available at: http://www.child-encyclopedia.com/peer-relations/introduction
[3] Hanushek, E. A., Kain, J. F., Markman, J. M., & Rivkin, S. G. (2003). Does peer ability affect student achievement?. Journal of applied econometrics, 18(5), 527-544.
[4] Woodward, L. J., & Fergusson, D. M. (2000). Childhood peer relationship problems and later risks of educational under-achievement and unemployment. Journal of child psychology and Psychiatry, 41(2), 191-201.