Final answer:
Early dating among adolescents is most closely associated with higher risks of alcohol and substance use. This trend aligns with the potential risks faced by early maturing adolescents, who also tend to experience substance abuse and early sexual activity. While peer influence is important, parental guidance still plays a crucial role in adolescent development and behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
Early dating, relative to peers, is associated with alcohol and substance use. Adolescents who begin dating early compared to their peers are likely to engage in other unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and early involvement in sexual activity. While early maturing boys may appear more popular and confident, they, along with early maturing girls, are at a greater risk for substance abuse and early sexual activity. On the other side of the spectrum, late maturing adolescents may experience poor body image and low self-esteem, potentially leading to depression and conflicts with parents.
Despite the peer group becoming very important during adolescence, parental influence remains significant. Positive parent-child relationships are linked with better grades and fewer school behavioral problems. However, it is worth noting that permissive parenting may contribute to risky behaviors such as alcohol abuse. Thus, the overall socialization experience for adolescents is influenced by both peers and family.