Prinstein, and the authors of the study, said that it's important to note that peer status is a specific form of popularity -- likeability rather than being the cool kid. "Peer status is rather an indicator of likability, and the degree to which a child is accepted and respected by their peers." "It seems likely that health behaviors also play a role in the progression from low peer status to circulatory diseases decades later. Ehrlich agreed that strong ties between parents and teens could act as a buffer against problematic peer relationships. "Additionally, many adolescents struggle at one point or another with their peer relationships -- finding it difficult to fit in or 'find their people,'" she said.

Source: CNN September 15, 2020 22:30 UTC