Final answer:
Resistance to peer influence generally begins to rise during late adolescence, around the age of 18, as part of the developmental transition towards increased independence and self-identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Studies show that peer influence rises and declines during adolescence. Research indicates that resistance to peer influence typically begins to rise during late adolescence, around the age of 18, which corresponds to the transition to emerging adulthood. This is a stage where adolescents are developing a stronger sense of personal identity and moral values, which contributes to an increased capacity to resist peer pressure.
As adolescents grow, they also become more emotionally separated from their parents, suggesting that the control over their decisions starts to shift from external influences to their own internal belief systems. This process is part of the broad psychosocial changes that occur during adolescence as teens develop a greater perception of self-esteem and an increased awareness of body image. With the move toward establishing their independence and moral values, they begin to rely less on their peer group and more on their individual judgment.