Understanding Peer Dynamics and Resilience in Adolescence: Insights From a Population-Based Australian Study

Abstract

Adolescence is marked by rapid developmental change and a heightened risk for developing mental illness, making the identification of protective factors critical. Resilience, defined as the capacity to adapt in the face of adversity, is a key contributor to mental health, yet the peer processes that support the development of this skill are under-explored. As friendships play an essential role in adolescence, this study examined peer belonging and friendship intimacy as predictors of resilience. Results from regression analyses, using a population-level dataset of 21,059 students (aged 15–18), demonstrated that higher peer belonging predicted greater resilience, while friendship intimacy had negligible results. This finding suggests that for fostering resilience, belonging to a peer group may have more benefits than perceived intimate peer support alone. These findings highlight the importance of inclusive peer networks in supporting resilience, prompting further research into how peer group opportunities can be encouraged during adolescence.