IDENTIFIERS *Resource Utilization

In this study, 242 adolescents were asked to indicate the likelihood that they would seek support from their mother, father, closest sibling, and closest friend when confronted with each of 24 common concerns. Mean scores were generated in eight specific and three general categories for all four target individuals. Mean scores for target individuals were compared. Mothers were the most likely source of support in the family. Siblings were rated higher than mothers for dating support, and were a more likely source of support than fathers for several areas. Peers were the most likely source of support, with higher ratings than siblings in all categories, and with higher ratings than parents in all areas except financial support, career planning, and personal values. Although ratings were similar for both genders, where differences did exist, females were more likely to go to peers and mothers for support than were males. Younger adolescents showed strorg preferences for mothers and peers, while older adolescents were likely to give higher ratings to fathers and siblings in several areas. Peers were rated higher than other targets on most areas of support-seeking. Findings reinforce the importance of context and its interaction with gender and age in determining adolescents ' support-seeking behavior. (Author/RH) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document