Middle school friendships can shape a child's future, study says

By Staff Writer

A child's group of friends in middle school may influence his or her future academic success, according to researchers from the University of Oregon.

The study, which will appear in the February issue of the Journal of Early Adolescence, found that students who associate with problem teens are more likely to have poor grades, while kids who are friends with respectful and rule-following individuals are more likely to do well in the classroom.

Researchers concluded that middle school, or junior high, is a time of major transition for adolescents. As kids are exposed to more classrooms and more students, they are provided with the opportunity to choose their friends. This format is different from elementary schools, where children traditionally stay in one class - led by one teacher - throughout the day.

Thomas Dishion, who co-led the study, said that most children begin puberty in middle school, thus they are focused on their social world just as much - if not more - than their academics. The behavior of social companions may have a significant long-term impact on a child's grades because middle school is the period when classroom habits are established.

Children who struggle academically may benefit from boarding schools, which aim to help students achieve in the classroom and develop positive behaviors.