As children grow into adolescence, they become increasingly interested in themselves as separate individuals, no longer just a son or daughter in a particular family. One of their primary concerns is whether they will ever become an adult, functioning fully on their own and making decisions for themselves by themselves. This concern and need to separate more from their family may put youths at odds with their families.
Adolescents begin to feel at ease with others in similar positions - their friends.
Friendships during this time period are often intense although they may be very short-lived. Best friends today may not be speaking to each other tomorrow. The need for friends is so strong that sometimes this desire controls them and causes them to do things they know are wrong just to belong to a particular group of friends. Experimentation with substances is high during this time period. Children of this age may know drug use is illegal and harmful, but the desire to belong is so great that friends may control clear thinking and appropriate behavior.