As teens grow older, they start spending less time with their families and more time with their friends. So it’s normal if you give priority to being with your friends.

At ages 11-13, it is common for teens to find friends similar in age and same gender. As teens move later into adolescence, it is common to stay close to childhood friends while also venturing out to new friends. As teens explore different friend groups and peer relationships, they become more aware of different opinions and beliefs. As they navigate later adolescence, they may start to find themselves attracted to other teens and even begin romantic relationships.