The early adolescent wants to try new things, make new friends, experiment with new looks, or cover their childhood room with posters of new heroes. It is the beginning of forming a new identity that is no longer centered in the home and family. This new identity may first change to one centered in friends and peers. As the child continues to mature friends will become less important in determining his identity and his own individual separate identity will develop with his own set of values and beliefs. But for now friends will seem to be the determining factor in dress, hair, vocabulary, actions, etc.
Parents can help by encouraging their child to try new things that are safe and positive.
Music, art, and sports are good options to explore. Just be prepared for the loss of interest to develop as quickly as the all-consuming interest did. Support your son or daughter and allow for flexibility. Encourage involvement in healthy peer group activities that incorporate adequate adult supervision. Too much discretionary time alone or with just peers often leads to participation in risky, unsafe behaviors.