The majority of British teens are still far more influenced by their parents than social media when it comes to big life decisions, a study has found.
A survey of 2,000 youngsters aged 13-18, who attend state or non-paying schools, found 75 percent name their parents as being among the most influential people in their lives.
In comparison, only three percent selected a social media influencer, or a celebrity they follow on social media.
While 28 percent believe their friends often influence their behaviour.
The research was commissioned by online resource, Talking Futures, whose spokesperson Michelle Rea, from the Gatsby Foundation, said: “As a parent, it may seem like your teen will listen to anyone but you when it comes to advice about their future.
“But the research reinforces just how influential parents are in their children’s education and career choices.
“This doesn’t mean that parents should worry about having all the answers; the important thing is to show support for your child’s interests and passions and help them work through the decisions they need to make together.”
The study also found parents or carers are most likely to be consulted on education and careers advice (65 percent), and even what hobbies and sports to try (35 percent).
When it comes to which types of online influencers kids would be most likely to listen to, ‘entrepreneurs’ topped the list (26 percent).
They were followed by sports personalities (20 percent), ‘lifestyle influencers’ (17 percent) and financial influencers (16 percent).
It also emerged 78 percent of youngsters think their parents or guardians speak to them exactly the right amount about the type of career they might pick when they’re older..
However, teens are nearly twice as likely to have the conversation started by their parents, than they are to open it themselves (42 percent compared to 22 percent).
But 63 percent of respondents, polled via OnePoll, come away from such conversations feeling more confident in landing their dream career.
Michelle Rea added: “The INFLUENCE framework is a new addition to the Talking Futures resources which are all designed to help parents feel more informed about the different education options out there and to get more out of the career conversations they have with their child.
“By exploring education and career options together, you can help your child find the right next step for them.”
