U. S. researchers have suggested that teens, that have supportive parents and peers, have higher self-esteem, which decreases their need to embrace material goods.

Teens of ages 12-18 were studied by Lan Nguyen Chaplin of the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona and co-author Deborah Roedder John of the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management.

The researchers further said that today's adolescents have been characterized as a brand-oriented, who derives self-worth from owning top merchandise and the latest technology devices.

It was also found by the study that teenagers who have supportive and accepting parents and peers are less materialistic.

The researchers further said that the teens who received the acceptance teens crave did not need to seek self-worth through material possessions.

Chaplin said in a statement, "Parents and peers can provide the much needed emotional support and contribute greatly to teenagers' feelings of self-worth. When teens feel better about themselves, they are less likely to feel the need to use material possessions to boost their self-esteem and achieve happiness." (With Inputs from Agencies)