Secrecy, Nondisclosure in Adolescence Explored : New research shows 'stronger manifestation of the darker side of secrecy' among younger teenagers.

And as in Dr. Keijsers' study, secrecy was associated with problem behavior and negative interactions, Dr. Smetana said. However, Dr. Smetana added that the willingness of adolescents to disclose to their mothers fluctuated, depending on the quality of the relationship.

The next phase of the research will include adolescents' fathers and best friends.

“We still need to learn more about whether disclosure and secrecy are related to parental knowledge and problem behaviors,” she said.

'In later adolescence, secrecy no longer predicted depression.' DR. KEIJSERS

'With my 11- and 12-year-olds, it's hard to imagine that keeping secrets in any situation is good.' DR. LAIRD