Final answer:
The importance of social success for the self-esteem of teenage girls is indeed emphasized in societal norms, but it is not absolute and can be influenced by various factors. The answer cannot be definitively characterized as true or false without considering the individual differences and broader social influences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether to the average teenage girl, success in the social domain is most critical to self-esteem because they place a high priority on popularity and social approval is true or false is complex and can vary. Sociocultural expectations do often place a strong emphasis on social approval and popularity for teenage girls, which can affect their self-esteem. However, this varies greatly among individuals and is influenced by many factors such as personal values, family, cultural backgrounds, and individual personalities.
As indicated in studies like those by anthropologist Signithia Fordham, teenage girls sometimes negotiate their academic successes to maintain social standings within their peer groups. Similarly, children's self-concept development, highlighted in Erikson's stages of development, shows the importance of social comparison during the formative years. This can lead to prioritizing social success over other accomplishments.
Yet, it's also important to recognize that the influence of friends and peers is not absolute. Teens often report that parents and other adults are significant influences in their lives, arguably sometimes even more than their peers.