According to Michigan State University Extension articles published in January 2013 and August 2016, one of the most important support systems for healthy adolescent development is positive friendships and positive peer influences.   Positive peer influence refers to kids acting as good or positive influences on other kids.  These peer to peer relationships can encourage teens to care about people, meet/set higher standards and participate in constructive activities.  

      With today’s challenges of social media and instant communication it is no wonder parents worry about negative peer pressure.  While one study found a majority of a teen’s time was spent with friends, classmates & peers, less than 5% was spent alone with parents.

       For the past 5 years, the Hardin County 4-H program has partnered with the Mississippi State Extension Service and Mississippi Quarter Horse Association to provide 4-H horse club members an opportunity to participate in the 4-H/MQHA “Teen Shadow” program held during the Dixie National Quarter Horse Show in Jackson, MS.  It is designed to give senior 4-H horse club members a chance to work behind the scenes and experience a variety of job opportunities in the equine industry.    Participants are selected based on their reference letter and essay on how they can help improve the 4-H horse program in their county.  

       The 2019 shadow participants represented an “all girls” team who worked with adults at the announcers stand, paddock area, horse sale, arena crew and awards.   While similar interests centered around the horse, the variety of social interaction provided an opportunity for teens to learn about different people, styles of teaching, improve social skills and equine related jobs.    As friendships developed so did a positive relationship with adults.  Kentucky youth  experienced life outside of their community bound by an interest in the horse industry.