Study Finds Strong Friend and Sibling Bonds Help Preteens Adjust to School and Early Adolescence

As preteens begin a new school year, recent research underscores the crucial role of close friendships and sibling relationships in supporting their social and emotional health during early adolescence. Conducted by Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), the study emphasizes that strong bonds with siblings and best friends can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness, sadness, and unhappiness, especially amid family challenges.

Led by psychology professor Ryan Persram and published in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, the research involved over 300 children aged 10 to 13 along with their parents. The findings reveal that adolescents who maintain secure relationships with siblings and friends tend to experience greater emotional stability and resilience. These connections act as protective buffers against the negative effects of family dysfunction and poor family organization, which can otherwise heighten internalizing difficulties such as depression.

"In today’s complex family environments, relationships with siblings and friends are vital. They serve as social anchors that help tweens cope with stress and family issues," explains Professor Persram. The study also notes that while close family contact is essential, intense familial closeness may sometimes hinder personal growth, such as developing independence. In contrast, friendships outside the family can support adolescents in achieving developmental milestones like autonomy.

The research highlights that feeling confident in the durability of sibling and friend relationships provides adolescents with a sense of security and support when facing challenges. Conversely, family dysfunction may increase vulnerability; however, strong external relationships can mitigate these risks.

These insights emphasize the importance for parents and guardians to foster and nurture meaningful sibling and friendship ties as key components of young teens’ emotional well-being. Strengthening these bonds can help preteens navigate the social pressures of school and personal development more effectively.

For more details, see https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-preteens-school-year-friends-kids.html