THEORIES OF ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT Ms. Maharaj

There are many theories in addition to what we have studied that tries to explain: “What is really going on here?| Adolescence is a journey marked by many changes in development –physical and emotional changes

Concept: Dominant Values Theorist: Eduard Spranger

Details: German philosopher Focused on Adolescence for research and studies  He explained that adolescence mark this period as a transition period from childhood to adulthood with physical, emotional and maturity changes  Dominant Value Direction is the coming together of a young person’s view, commitment to this view as the “guideline” for their world and moves that forward into adulthood  E.g. Craig Keilburger (Social Justice)

Spranger and his 3 basic characteristics of behaviour in Teens  Rebirth occurs as a sign of maturity --the “AHA! Moment”  Acceptance of societies norms- cultural values and ideas  Giving up your seat on the TTC to the Elderly, pregnant etc  Self control and discipline becomes part of the teen’s job of behaviour management--- they can control and sanction themselves.

Concept: Gradual Changes to Adulthood Theorist: Leta Stetter

Details: American Psychologist Argues against Stanley Hall– we learnt about him yesterday--- youth as confused and contrary individuals  She believed that ADL went through gradual, continual and calm development into adulthood  She proposed there weren’t stages but the experience as a journey and changes were noticeable along that journey

Concept: (Field) Theory of Adolescence Theorist: Kurt Lewin

Details: German Psychologist Looked at groups in adl. Because so important to who we are and become  Attempts to explain a person’s individual behaviour without generalizing and creating myths and stereotypes (E.g. no self control)  Social Group membership changes in this stage of life and the adolescent has to choose their membership from child group to adult– this is a frustrating process to find their position now within the group  E.g. Think about transition from High School to Uni or College--- big fry vs. small fry

The other perspectives  Structural Functionalism  Structures in society exist to serve members  Role as student is accepted in institutions where skills are being taught for success later on in the next stage  Must all learn so that we fulfill “the job” so society functions well  Conflict Theory  Power/wealth is basis for relationships and will have it’s conflict always  Socio-economic status in teen years assert importance

Other perspectives  Conflict as a result of inequalities with gender  Female teens faced with barriers for career/negotiating expectations  We all play a role in society, it is the interpretation and value of the perceived role that maintains order  Recognize self as part of a family or society, working towards the greater good Feminist TheorySymbolic Interactionism

Continued….  We weigh pros and cons of belonging or participating in any group and take into account social relationships  This forces conformity to group behaviour without the objective look at self because haven’t done the work of weighing pros and cons. Social Exchange Theory

Now….  Reading, Analysis and Discussion  The Baby Boomers….. Are we doomed!?