Cognitive and Psychosocial Development in Adolescence

Study Notes

Piaget's Formal Operational Stage (age 11+): Ability to think abstractly and hypothetically, using symbols (algebra, science) to solve problems. This builds upon concrete operational thinking of earlier childhood.
Abstract Reasoning: Ability to reason without concrete objects. Cognitive schemas and structures are largely in place by adolescence, with continued development throughout life through knowledge acquisition.

Erikson's Identity vs. Role Confusion: Establishing a sense of identity (attributes, roles, goals, interests, values, beliefs, self-esteem) is central to adolescent development. This encompasses both global and specific aspects of self.
Havighurst's Key Environments: School (primary setting for cognitive and social development, teachers influence self-esteem), Home/Family (diverse family structures, bonds and attachment crucial, potential conflict). Other important environments include community, sports, faith/religion, and work.
Peer Relationships: Increasingly important for identity development, moral judgment, and gaining information beyond family. Their influence changes across adolescence.
Significant Relationships/Sexual Behavior/Dating: Begins in middle adolescence, varying in duration, nature (including online relationships), and involving experimentation, intimacy, risk, and control.

Academic Pressure: Stress related to grades and expectations of success.
Mental Health: High prevalence of undiagnosed and untreated conditions.
Peer Pressure: Conformity and comparison impacting self-esteem and behavior.
Body Image Concerns: Significant influence on self-perception and mental health.
Identity Issues: Struggles with self-discovery and self-acceptance.
Socioeconomic Factors: Influence various aspects of adolescent life.
Authority Issues: Navigating relationships with parents and other figures of authority.
Future Expectations: Anxiety related to future plans and uncertainties.

Critical Period: Adolescence is a crucial time for developing mental well-being habits.
High Prevalence of Untreated Conditions: Half of mental health conditions begin by age 14.
Suicide: Third leading cause of death among 15-19 year olds.
Risk Factors: Early-maturing girls and late-maturing boys are at increased risk for depression, suicide, substance abuse, and disordered eating. Other risk factors include desire for autonomy, conformity pressure, media influence, gender norms, sexual identity exploitation, home life quality, peer relationships, violence, and socioeconomic status (SES).

Risk-Taking Behavior: Driven by fun, excitement, peer pressure, modeling.
Major Forms of Risk: Motor vehicle accidents, suicide, homicide, and other incidents.
Positive Influences: Role models, positive reinforcement, support systems, and encouragement of healthy habits are beneficial.

Substance Abuse: Cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs leading to dependency, pregnancy/STDs, crime/violence, and school failure.
Factors Associated with Resilience: A positive relationship with a caring adult, religious/spiritual anchor, high yet realistic academic expectations, positive family environment, and emotional intelligence.