Lola's Teen Years

1. Lola's peer relationships have been important to her overall development. The teenage years are a time when kids are exploring and creating an identity, and friends can play a big role in that. Over the years, Lola has always been well-liked with many friends. She is somewhat of a social butterfly. I am confident that her frequent interactions with her peers in and outside of school have helped develop interpersonal competence. From an emotional well-being standpoint, having many friends was really important because Lola had a strong support system and trusted friends she could talk to. Academically, Lola is a high achiever and participates in many clubs. She is especially passionate about science. Interacting with her peers in these academic-based settings fostered Lola's passion and engagement with science specifically.

2. Since she was a little girl, Lola has always loved to laugh. As she got older, she began understanding how to use humor to lighten the mood and put things into perspective. I think this strengthened the relationship I have with Lola, as well as her relationship with her father. There is less arguing because we both are able to use humor at appropriate times. I would think this new ability will also serve Lola well with her peers for the same reasons. She is able to head of unnecessary conflicts by using humor appropriately.