Teens who have learned to accept themselves and others have had a strong attachment to their mother or primary caregiver, beginning in infancy. Parenting style affects how the teen eventually accepts himself and others. A moderately controlling, highly nurturing parenting style gives the teen the tools he needs to learn to negotiate relationships with his peers.
These teens have several opportunities to interact with their peers in different settings, such as school, with their families, the neighborhood, sports, church and activity centers. If they meet peers from different socioeconomic groups or ethnic groups, these teens are better skilled at self-acceptance and acceptance of others.