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 Theory Symbolic 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!?