In developmental psychology, which of the following best explains why connections with friends can become more important than family relationships during adolescence?

• A. Peer relationships replace all forms of adult guidance during adolescence.
• B. Adolescents have less access to family members due to increased schoolwork.
• C. Adolescents seek autonomy and identity, making peer relationships central to their social development.
• D. Family relationships are no longer influential during adolescence.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the developmental stage of adolescence, which is characterized by a search for autonomy and identity formation.
2. Recognize that during adolescence, individuals begin to shift their focus from family to peers as part of their social development process.
3. Analyze why peer relationships become central: adolescents seek to establish independence and explore their identity outside the family context.
4. Evaluate the incorrect options by considering that peer relationships do not completely replace adult guidance, nor do family relationships lose all influence.
5. Conclude that the best explanation is that adolescents prioritize peer connections because these relationships support their developmental need for autonomy and identity.