The interpersonal circumplex model (IPC) may help identify specific social goals that function as moderators of the association between perceived peer approval/use of substances and intentions to use (e.g., Locke, 2000; Ojanen, Gronroos, & Salmivalli, 2005). This is one of the most widely used models for conceptualizing and assessing social goals and is comprised of two orthogonal axes: a horizontal axis representing communion (i.e., friendliness, solidarity, and warmth) and a vertical axis representing agency (i.e., dominance, power, and control). Those high on agentic goals (+A) value appearing confident, independent, and dominant; while those low in agentic goals (−A) value avoiding conflict by pleasing others and appearing submissive. Those high on communal goals (+C) value feeling close with others and developing friendships; while those low in communal goals (−C) value appearing detached and aloof. Each point on the circumplex is defined as a weighted combination of levels of both communion and agency, reflecting all combinations of agency and communion (Ojanen et al., 2005). An adolescent’s standing on these dimensions, and hence their social goals, may impact their susceptibility to peer influence.
