PSYCHOSOCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN ADOLESCENTS General Concepts - The transition from adolescence into adulthood is continuous and generally atraumatic. - Disruptive behavior and family conflict is the norm. Most family conflict centers on commonplace issues such as curfews, clothing, allowance, chores. - The adolescent undergoes significant changes in cognitive development and in the ability to think abstractly. I. Tasks of Adolescence Development and acceptance of body image Independence from parents and family Adoption of peer codes, and lifestyle Development of vocational, ego, moral identity Early adolescence- ages 12-14 (junior high school years) Middle adolescence- ages 15-17 (senior high school years) Late adolescence- ages 18-21 (post high school) II. Stages Early Adolescence 1. Puberty - This period is marked by the changes, which accompany the onset and process of the physical changes of growth and development. 2. Behavior - common to early adolescents include: self-centered focus, preoccupation with physical development, questioning of “normality” (Am I normal?) And initiation of independence/dependence struggle. 3. Body image - Preoccupation with changes in body development and maturation. Frequent comparison of one’s own body with that of others. Increased interest in sexual function (Lots of time in the bathroom!) Concern over perceived deficits (“My penis is not large enough.”) Comparison of self with perceived ideal (I’m not thin enough.) 4. Independence-dependence Decreased interest and willingness to participate in family activities. Desire to be with group family may create a “void” which may manifest in daydreaming, or perception of isolation in some teens. This maybe demonstrated by wide swings of mood, or self-centeredness. Teen may demonstrate embarrassment of parents and family. 5. Peer-group “Best friends”- solitary same sex friendships, prefer same sex groups Involvement with opposite sex in “safe” settings (i.e., the phone} Public awkwardness and avoidance of members of opposite sex - except in groups (boy-girl parties) 6. Identity development Egocentricity of self-centeredness, which is initiated by pubertal development, may direct adolescent thoughts to engage in fantasy. The adolescent may feel that others are attentive to his/her actions and feel “onstage”. Unrealistic vocational goals - the early teen lacks insight and experience that are necessary for realistic goal formation. Challenges to authority - reflect the need for self-definition, often causes tension between adolescent and adults. Often challenges to authority are not initially aimed at parents, rather at teachers, or other adults in authority roles. Value systems of early tens become individualized, may be self-centered and reflect the “world revolves around me” perception of the teen. Also reflected in an adolescent’s sense of invulnerability. Poor impulse control secondary to lack of insight or recognition of consequences of behaviors. Middle Adolescence This period is characterized by the increased importance and role of the peer group. 1. Puberty – has almost been completed. 2. Behavior - increasing importance of independence/ dependence issues and emergence of realistic vocational goals also characterize this stage. 3. Body Image By middle adolescence, most teens have experienced the majority of pubertal changes. General acceptance of body image, but focus becomes modification of appearance (weight loss, cosmetic changes - e.g. contact lenses). The adolescent with pubertal delay may demonstrate significant concern over perceived abnormality. Adolescent with disfiguring injury or illness may continue to have primary focus on body image. 4. Independence-dependence Some teens may adopt a rejection of parental and family value systems in favor of value system of peer group. Significant decrease in interests and activities of family in favor of peer activities. Conflicts center around curfews, chores, expected role within family. Very “black and white” issues. 5. Peer-group Assume major role in adolescent’s life Intense need to feel accepted or “belong” Fear of “being different” Group dictates behaviors, dress and activities Code of group conduct extends to sexual activity, drug use, and other “illicit” behaviors Exclusion of nongroup members or others who are “different” 6. Increased involvement with teams, clubs, gangs (need to belong) Identity Increased intensity of feelings Initially a refusal to consider feelings of others Perception of invulnerability and recognition of skills (deficits) Emergence of realistic vocational goals Late Adolescence The tasks of identity and separation are the primary focus of this stage of development. 1. Puberty – has now been completed. 2. Behaviors – relate to handling the tasks and responsibilities of adulthood and more time spent in sharing intimate relationships. 3. Body image - Most teens have accepted their body’s development. Some focus on cosmetic “fine tuning” (weight loss, cosmetics, etc.) Body image concerns may be present for the adolescent with delayed development development, or physical impairment/injury. 4. Independence-dependence Many adolescents recognize that the peer group important in middle adolescence allowed them no more independence than did their parents and families. Reintegration into family activities. Reacceptance of family values and norms. Some hesitance to accept adult responsibilities- very little hesitance to accept desired adult privileges (sexual activity, spending money, etc). 5. Peer-group Friendships progress from group dominant to singular. 6. Increased tolerance and understanding of individual Differences. Friendships based less on appearance and more on mutual interests. Decreased importance and role of peer group from middle adolescence. Identity Practical vocational goals are of primary importance. Moral, religious and sexual values are re-evaluated. Adult characteristic behaviors include: o Delayed gratification, o Compromise and o Insight gained from experience.