Adolescence

Question 1

Name the basic cognitive and psychological tasks associated with this stage of development

Answer 1

Develop from concrete operational stage, to the formal operational stage.
Separate from family at first, then come back
Find a group to fit into
Individuate oneself
Develop new relationships

Question 2

Describe elements of a typical adolescent’s thought process and decision making

Answer 2

Capacity for logical, abstract thought usually develops (not always)
Idealistic, not practical
Since limbic system and prefrontal cortex not developed, very impulsive

Question 3

Describe the basic parental tasks associated with this period of development.

Answer 3

Gentle questioning to help them think, and full explanation

Provide warm and supportive ways to regulate feelings

Do not be controlling or permissive (balanced)

Question 4

Define identity diffusion in the context of identity development

Answer 4

No exploration, no commitment

Question 5

Define: Moratorium in the context of identity development

Answer 5

Exploration, no commitment

Question 6

Define Foreclosure in the context of identity development

Answer 6

No exploration, but there is a commitment

Question 7

Define identity achievement in the context of identity development

Answer 7

Exploration and commitment

Question 8

What are Phinney’s stages of ethnic identity?

Answer 8

1. Unexamined - go with group identity
2. Ethnic identity search - exploration of ethnicity, often beginning when one experience an ethnic slur
3. Ethnic Identity achievement - self-confidence in achievement

Question 9

What are Richard Troidan’s stages of sexual identity development?

Answer 9

Sensitization - feeling different

Self-recognition - Identity confusion (Who am I?)

Identity assumption - how can I reconcile feelings and identity

Commitment - fully “out”