The Impact of Human Skills Development on Peer Relationships

In today’s classrooms, students are expected to do more than just pass their tests—they’re also learning how to form meaningful friendships and collaborate with others. Developing these essential human skills—skills like communication, empathy, and self-regulation—goes far beyond academics. These skills are crucial for building positive peer relationships, making teamwork more effective, and setting students up for success, both now and in the future.

Research consistently shows that when students have strong human skills, their ability to connect with peers improves dramatically. These skills lay the groundwork for a positive school climate, better mental well-being, and stronger academic performance.

Building stronger relationships

A key benefit of human skills instruction is that it equips students with the tools to build and maintain healthier friendships. When students develop key emotional skills and social skills, they’re better equipped to manage their interactions through conflict resolution and empathy.

Human skills programs also teach students how to better manage conflicts, an essential skill for working with others and maintaining relationships.

Additionally, students are taught emotion regulation and communication skills to help them better handle social stress and communicate effectively. In fact, students who participate in human skills programs have been shown to experience improved peer relationships, as well as improved school functioning.

Fostering teamwork skills for success

Human skills also play a huge role in teamwork. Whether it’s working on a group project, participating in extracurricular activities, or simply learning how to work with classmates, the ability to collaborate is crucial.

Human skills programs teach students how to better collaborate, cooperate in a team, and solve problems. This type of programming also offers opportunities for students to participate in team discussions and activities. These students learn how to communicate and collaborate in productive ways, which is vital for success in today’s classrooms—and beyond.

This ability to work well in teams is critical for collaborative learning environments. Students who learn how to listen, share ideas, and support their team are more likely to contribute substantively and confidently.

Building a foundation for long-term impact

The benefits of strengthening human skills don’t stop when students leave the classroom. These skills carry over into their teenage years and throughout their lives and careers. In fact, researchers found that teacher-rated social competence in kindergarten consistently and significantly predicted outcomes in education, employment, substance use, and mental health in adulthood.

The benefits of human skills programs are especially evident in school environments, where they can contribute to reduced aggression, improved student behavior, and a more positive school environment. These programs are designed to help students manage their emotions, understand others’ perspectives, and resolve disagreements in ways that support a positive school climate.

Improving the school climate

Beyond individual student outcomes, human skills instruction has a profound positive impact on the overall school climate. When students learn to manage their emotions and resolve conflicts, they contribute to a school environment that is safer and more supportive for everyone.

Human skills programs aim to help create a welcoming, nurturing school atmosphere where students respect each other, show empathy, and collaborate effectively. In fact, these programs are linked to a decrease in aggressive behaviors and an increase in overall student engagement, leading to a school culture where all students can feel accepted and thrive.

Why it all matters

When you invest in strengthening human skills, you’re investing in more than just academic success. You’re teaching students how to build and maintain relationships, become stronger team players, and contribute to a positive school climate. These essential life skills are the foundation for a successful future—not only for the students themselves but also for the broader community.

In fact, research indicates that students who participate in human skills programming perform better academically, exhibit reduced behavioral issues, and have decreased emotional distress. So, while it’s important to focus on math and reading, it’s just as important to nurture the skills that will help students build relationships and thrive in group settings.

It’s essential for educators to prioritize human skills development. These are the skills that will help students form meaningful friendships, work effectively in teams, and succeed in school and throughout their lives.

If you’re ready to take the next step in helping kids strengthen core human skills that support student learning and well-being, connect with our Education Partnerships Team and learn more about bringing Second Step® programs to your school or district.