This report critically examines the importance of building and maintaining strong social skills through relationships during the teenage years. Looking at the numerous social relationships of a teenager – such as those with parents, grandparents, mentors and friends – the report analyzes how support, confidence and communication are among the essential elements common to each relationship. The report explains how these positive relationships help youth develop fundamental social skills, including intimacy, conflict resolution, pro-social behaviors and empathy. The report concludes that healthy relationships during the teenage years play an enormous role in solidifying lifelong social competency and sound psychological development. Nine pages. $5. Child Trends, 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Ste. 100, Washington, DC 20008. (202) 362-5580, www.childtrends.org.
