Peer influence and adolescents’ school engagement

AbstractMany studies have suggested that friends have a powerful influence on school adjustment, attitudes, and behaviors. However, there is a paucity of systematic investigations on the relationship between peer influence and adolescents’ school engagement. Therefore, this study investigated the relationship by applying longitudinal analyses as well as testing indirect effects of peer influence via students’ motivational factors such as locus of control and academic expectation. Results from this study indicated that peers have an important influence on the behavior and development of adolescents. These findings are understandable in that the child's acceptance within the peer group is one of the key measures of positive/negative school experiences. Perceived support from peers can give students a sense of motivation and help students see the importance of pursuing academic success