International Baccalaureate (IB) Practice Exam

Have teens reported that "friends" are the strongest influence on their purchasing decisions?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: True

Teens often report that friends are the strongest influence on their purchasing decisions due to the social dynamics of adolescence. During this developmental stage, peer groups become significantly influential, as teenagers are navigating their identities and striving for acceptance within their social circles. This often leads to a desire to conform to the preferences and behaviors of their friends, which can extend to various aspects of life, including buying choices. Market research indicates that teens are more likely to seek out products that are popular among their peers, which can include clothing, technology, and entertainment options. The importance of social validation during these years makes peer recommendations and trends very powerful when it comes to purchasing behavior. While parents and other factors also play a role in influencing teen purchases, the immediacy and visibility of friends’ opinions often supersede these influences, reinforcing the idea that peer approval is a major driver of consumer behavior among teens.