Adolescent romantic behaviors and perceptions: Age- and gender-related differences, and links with family and peer relationships

This study examined the role of age, gender, and dating experience in adole scent romantic behaviors and perceptions. In addition, the linkage between the quality of relationships with parents and peers, and affective intensit y with a romantic partner was investigated. Interviews were held with 168 I sraeli adolescents, who also completed questionnaires assessing romantic be haviors, romantic perceptions, and quality of relationships with their roma ntic partner, parents, and a same-gender close friend. Older adolescents we re more likely than younger adolescents to have a romantic partner. Romanti c perceptions pertaining to companionship and excitement were less frequent among older adolescents. However, aspects such as intimacy and level of em otional involvement were similar across adolescence. Girls emphasized more attachment and care in their romantic relationships than boys. In addition, adolescents who were currently dating perceived romantic relationships mor e in terms of emotional involvement than adolescents who were not dating. T he affective intensity with same-gender close friend but not with parents w as linked to the affective intensity with the romantic partner.