The influence of adolescents’ romantic relationship on individual development: Evidence from China

Based on China Education Panel Survey (CEPS) data, this paper explores the influence of adolescents’ romantic relationship on individual development in terms of academic, emotional, and interpersonal development. The research finds that the academic performance of adolescents who involved in romantic relationship is relatively lower and their risk of having negative emotions is also lower than their counterparts outside relationship. The romantic relationship provides an opportunity learning how to maintain intimacy relationship and build positive self-concept, and thus, it has a positive effect on growth of interpersonal ability. Due to differences in gender roles, the romantic relationship has a stronger impact on female adolescents. In addition, in a high-pressure environment, individuals with romantic relationship bear greater psychological pressures. A more open, tolerant, and supportive environment toward adolescents’ romantic relationship will promote their holistic development.