The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of early adolescent girls regarding friendships, peer relations and stress. Ten early adolescent girls (aged 12-13 years) were interviewed using a semi-structured qualitative format. A grounded theory process was utilized. The research results identified that the participants experienced both a sense of belonging, as well as acts of exclusion from friends. The participants reported that they do experience stress and it is mainly regarding friends, boys, and parents. A number of character strengths were identified, including friendship...