The attachment that a child has with its parent or guardian is a central predictor for mental health and well-being, as well as relationship satisfaction, during adulthood. While families, parents, and caregivers are central to our well-being, during adolescence, friends and peers become more significant as young people become more independent and start to build their own social networks. As a result, toxic relationships and negative experiences, such as bullying or social isolation, can be more relevant and have a serious impact on young people’s mental health. Schools and the teacher-student relationship, and positive support from organizations such as youth clubs, can act as a buffer and help protect young people during this difficult time.
According to this passage, which relationship has the greatest influence on a child’s mental health?
