1. The Adolescent in Society

2. 5 Characteristics of Adolescence
Biological Growth & Development
Undefined Status
Increased Decision Making
Increased Pressures
Search for Self

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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

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

7. 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