Linkages among adolescent girls’ romantic relationships, best friendships, and peer networks

This study examined the linkages among girls’ best friendships and romantic relationships and accounted for the level of dating involvement as a moderating variable. Social exchange and Sullivanʹs socioemotional theories served as guides in this process. Questionnaires were administered to 446 girls aged 15–19 years. Results showed that: (a) dating is associated with more positive and less negative interactions with best friends; (b) increasing age and dating involvement are linked with increased reliance on romantic partners; (c) romantic relationships have more negative interactions than best friendships; and (d) peer-network size and structure is related to dating behaviour. Mid to late adolescence is a time when girls shift attention away from friends and towards romantic partners.