Teens often use humor or sarcasm to mask vulnerability. Let your characters be funny and self-deprecating when they are nervous.

The "Academic Overachiever" and the "Class Clown" or the "Athlete" and the "Artist."

Use the character's thoughts to heighten the tension of simple actions, like a shared locker or a first text message. 2. The Role of the Peer Group

Focus on the moment a protagonist realizes a long-time friend suddenly feels "different."