Which developmental stage emphasizes peer relationships?

The developmental stage that emphasizes peer relationships is during the school age. During this phase, typically ranging from ages 6 to 12, children begin to form meaningful connections outside of their families. They are developing social skills and learning how to interact with their peers, which is crucial for their emotional and social development. This stage is characterized by children seeking acceptance and belonging within a group, which helps them develop self-esteem, cooperation, and the ability to navigate social dynamics.

While other stages also involve peer interactions, none emphasize this aspect as much as the school age. In preschool, interactions are generally more focused on parallel play and basic social skills. Young adulthood often shifts towards romantic relationships and establishing one's identity within society. Middle adulthood is typically characterized by responsibilities such as parenting and career, where peer relationships might be less central than in childhood. Thus, the school age is distinct in its focus on the formation and importance of friendships among peers.