Introduction

Defining Adolescence - (Continued)

6. The Social Perspective focuses on the changes of interpersonal relationships when comparing children to adolescents to adults. Additionally, this perspective examines how society views this time period of development, is it a time of participation in society or a time of preparation for adult roles? When they become an adult, what are the status changes for the individual? For example, do you remember when you were first allowed to vote? When you began paying taxes? Or as my parents joked with me when I turned 18, that I was now an adult and could be tried in a court of law as one, just like the rest of the adult world. Thus, some definitions of adolescence include the criterion of being treated as an adult and allowing them to have the rights (and responsibilities) of an adult within the society as the upper boundary for the time period (Rice & Dolgin, 2005). You’ll find that in lesson 6 we’ll focus on the various status changes associated with becoming adult, including the benefits and responsibilities expected with these changes. Also, we’ll describe the historical course of how society has modified its view on this period of development. Finally, you'll also find elements of this perspective discussed in various other lessons, such as the sections on peers, intimacy, and family.


7. The Individualization Perspective incorporates changes in identity and how we see ourselves. Additionally, this perspective focuses on issues of moral development and autonomy. Establishment of autonomy essentially reflects your ability to think and act independently as well as taking responsibility for your actions. Thus, the individualization perspective might conclude that adolescence is a time span when we struggle to discover who we are and become self-sufficient behaviorally, emotionally, and morally.

Table modified from Steinberg (2008).