Adolescence

Question 1

What does adolescence mean?

Answer 1

• meaning of it depends on society in which is being used. = social contruct
• considered a ‘social construct’ as word invented to describe transitional period between childhood and adulthood, usually spanning 6-10 years. time when developmental changes occur.
• doesn’t exist in all societies.
• recent term

many societies where word doesn’t exist as concept doesn’t exist

Question 2

Where is the term mostly recognisable? Why?

Answer 2

• in westernised societies such as aus, britain, US as have a very diff course of development to other S+Cs.
• dont have cope with responsibilities of finding sufficient food to survive, guaranteeing shelter daily, or being responsible for physical survival of family units.

Question 3

What is seen as the step towards adulthood in westernised societies?

Answer 3

• employments, part time jobs seen as gradual stepping stone towards adulthood.

Question 4

What is adolescence in other cultures?

Answer 4

• young ppl in Asia, Africa or Latin American countries
• education not guaranteed = only available to wealthy
• child labour common
• life on street commonplace reality
• concept of having time out to develop interests and identity incomprehensible to ppl in situation