The Adolescent in Society

5 Characteristics of Adolescence Biological Growth & Development Undefined Status Increased Decision Making Increased Pressures Search for Self

Biological Growth & Development Puberty causes changes in the body. Height, body proportions Changes can cause anxiety or embarrassment Occurs when the individual is physically way ahead or behind others of the same age

Undefined Status Society’s expectations for children are clear Society’s expectations for adults are not clear Some treat adolescents as adults, some treat them as children Adults are critical of adolescents behavior, dress, music.

Increased Decision Making As children, adults make decisions. As adolescents – they make their own decisions. Long-term decisions (ex. College?, Career?) are made by adolescents

Increased Pressures Increased Pressures from many sources: Parents Rules, curfew Peers Relationships, fitting in Job Spending money, financial independence Role Conflict between these sources

Search for Self Adolescents are mature enough to consider what they want out of life Developed values to consider what is important to them. Preparing for future roles Anticipatory Socialization