psyc 210 developmental psychology unit 8 study guides

Key Concepts and Theories

• Adolescence spans the period from puberty to adulthood, typically ages 10-19
• Marked by significant physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes
• Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory emphasizes the importance of identity formation during adolescence (identity vs. role confusion)
• Jean Piaget's cognitive development theory suggests adolescents enter the formal operational stage, enabling abstract thinking and hypothetical reasoning
  • Allows for more complex problem-solving and moral reasoning
• G. Stanley Hall's "storm and stress" view of adolescence as a period of heightened emotional turmoil and conflict
• Sociocultural theories highlight the influence of social and cultural factors on adolescent development (Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory)
• Puberty marks the onset of adolescence and is influenced by biological and environmental factors

Physical Development

• Puberty initiates rapid physical changes, including growth spurts and sexual maturation
  • Triggered by hormonal changes, particularly increased production of testosterone and estrogen
• Primary sex characteristics develop, such as the maturation of reproductive organs (testes, ovaries)
• Secondary sex characteristics emerge, including breast development in females and facial hair growth in males
• Significant increases in height and weight occur, with girls typically experiencing puberty earlier than boys
• Brain development continues, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions and decision-making
• Physical changes can impact self-esteem and body image, especially when development occurs earlier or later than peers

Cognitive Changes

• Adolescents enter Piaget's formal operational stage, enabling abstract thinking, hypothetical reasoning, and systematic problem-solving
• Increased metacognition allows for greater self-awareness and reflection on one's own thought processes
• Improvements in information processing, including attention, memory, and processing speed
• Development of advanced moral reasoning, moving from a focus on rewards and punishments to considering abstract principles of justice and ethics (Kohlberg's stages of moral development)
  • Adolescents may question previously accepted moral standards and develop their own moral codes
• Heightened self-consciousness and egocentrism, leading to the imaginary audience and personal fable phenomena
• Greater capacity for long-term planning and goal-setting, although impulsivity and risk-taking may still be prevalent

Social and Emotional Growth

• Increased emotional intensity and mood swings, often attributed to hormonal changes and stress
• Heightened self-consciousness and concern about social acceptance and peer approval
• Development of more complex and intimate friendships, with a focus on shared interests, loyalty, and emotional support
  • Friendships tend to become more stable and enduring compared to childhood
• Emergence of romantic interests and dating, which can contribute to emotional ups and downs
• Improved ability to understand and empathize with others' perspectives and emotions
• Increased capacity for self-regulation and emotional management, although this skill continues to develop into adulthood
• Potential for increased conflict with parents as adolescents seek greater autonomy and independence

Identity Formation

• Central task of adolescence, according to Erikson's psychosocial theory (identity vs. role confusion)
• Involves exploring and committing to various aspects of identity, such as values, beliefs, career goals, and social roles
  • Marcia's identity statuses: identity diffusion, foreclosure, moratorium, and identity achievement
• Experimentation with different roles, styles, and behaviors as part of the identity exploration process
• Influence of family, peers, culture, and media on identity development
• Formation of ethnic and racial identity, particularly for minority youth (Phinney's stages of ethnic identity development)
• Development of sexual identity and orientation
• Possible identity confusion or crisis when faced with conflicting values or expectations

Challenges and Risks

• Increased risk-taking behaviors, such as substance use, unprotected sexual activity, and reckless driving
  • May be influenced by peer pressure, impulsivity, and the "invincibility" mindset of the personal fable
• Potential for mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders
  • Hormonal changes, stress, and social pressures can contribute to psychological distress
• Academic pressures and the need to make decisions about future education and career paths
• Navigating changing family relationships and seeking autonomy while still needing support
• Cyberbullying and the impact of social media on self-esteem and relationships
• Exposure to violence, trauma, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have long-lasting effects on development
• Risky sexual behaviors leading to unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Family and Peer Relationships

• Shifting power dynamics within the family as adolescents seek greater independence and autonomy
  • Renegotiation of rules, boundaries, and roles within the family system
• Potential for increased conflict with parents, particularly regarding issues of control and decision-making
• Continued importance of parental support, monitoring, and open communication for healthy development
• Increasing influence of peer groups on attitudes, behaviors, and decision-making
  • Conformity to peer pressure and the desire for social acceptance
• Formation of cliques and crowds based on shared interests, values, or social status
• Friendships become more intimate and emotionally supportive, serving as a source of companionship and validation
• Emergence of romantic relationships and dating, which can impact social dynamics and emotional experiences

Cultural Influences on Adolescence

• Cultural norms, values, and expectations shape the adolescent experience and development
  • Variations in the timing and significance of adolescent milestones across cultures (age of majority, rites of passage)
• Collectivistic vs. individualistic cultural orientations influence the balance between family obligations and personal autonomy
• Gender roles and expectations may become more pronounced during adolescence, with cultural differences in the emphasis on gender-specific behaviors and responsibilities
• Acculturation and ethnic identity development among immigrant and minority youth
  • Navigating the challenges of balancing heritage culture with the dominant culture
• Socioeconomic factors and access to resources impact educational and occupational opportunities
• Media and technology as cultural influences, shaping adolescents' values, beliefs, and behaviors
  • Exposure to diverse perspectives and potential for global connectedness through digital media
• Religious and spiritual beliefs can provide a framework for moral development and identity formation