Peer Influence in Relation to Academic Performance and Socialization among Adolescents: a Literature Review

________Howard__________Nicole_______M._________________________ (Writer) (Last Name) (First) (Initial) Peer Influence In Relation To Academic Performance and Socialization Among__ (Title) Adolescents: A Literature Review______________________________________ School Psychology Dr. Helen Swanson May/2004_____ 30__________ (Graduate Major) (Research Advisor) (Month/Year) (No. of Pages) Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Fifth Edition___ (Name of Style Manual Used in This Study) Adolescents have always been exposed to peer influence, but the kinds of peer influence that they encounter have changed tremendously in the past years. Peers can influence everything from what an adolescent chooses to wear to whether or not an adolescent engages in drug related or other delinquent behavior. This is an important topic because if society and education related professionals understand the issues surrounding negative peer influence, they are more likely to prevent it and be more adequately prepared to help a teenager facing negative aspects of peer pressure. This research is a review of the existing literature on the positive and negative aspects of peer influence among adolescents in relation to academic performance and socialization. Directions for future research and implications for professional practice are also included.