Assessing Peer Relations: A Guide for Out-of-School Time Program Practitioners. Research-to-Results Brief. Publication #2012-32.

Abstract

Getting along well with peers and having supportive friendships are critical goals for positive youth development. Although most children and youth enjoy healthy relationships with their peers, some young people are disliked, excluded, and/or bullied by others. These children and youth are more likely than their better liked and accepted peers to experience problems with academic, social, and behavioral adjustment. Promoting positive relationships with same-age peers can deter and prevent these problems. i This brief describes factors that promote positive peer relations; provides information about easy-to-use measures for assessing peer relations (both positive and problematic); and lists several resources for promoting positive peer relations in childhood and adolescence.