In fact, many parents feel helpless at the social whims of their adolescent children who are fiercely loyal to their peers and significantly interested in the opposite sex. Teachers must help parents to realize that peer pressure is a normal part part of the maturing process. All teachers have the opportunity to become counselors to their students. And teachers must take advantage of these opportunities, because they often spend more time with the kids and get to know them better than their parents do. Schools can sponsor activities that permit the student to interact socially with many school personnel, since students are so social at this stage of development.
Family studies can ease parental conflicts.
Parents should not be so conspicuous at school functions, however, that their child's development is impeded. Boundaries and rules should be set according to approved standards of behavior and interpersonal relations. Teachers should be flexible in helping students to set and meet these guidelines. Ideally, students will accept the added responsibilitiesin a mature fashion, and strive to meet the goals they have helped to set. The family grouping of students into teams or houses provides a sense of belonging and security for students.