Social Changes!

I want to focus on a few social changes that teens undergo during development.

• Finding Their Identity:  Adolescents are working to find out who they are!  This can be influenced by gender, friends, school, family, media, etc.  They are searching for how they fit into the world and who they want to be.
• Seeking More Responsibility:  Teens often feel ready to accept more responsibilities both at home and at school.  As they grow toward adulthood, they want to experience what they believe to be "adult" responsibilities and independence.
• New Methods of Communicating:  Social media, cell phones, and the internet have become the method that young people use to communicate with each other as well as learn about the world.
• Developing Morals:  Part of the responsibility that adolescents seek is also a responsibility for their actions.  As they make decisions they will begin to consider the consequences and develop a sense of "wrong" and "right."
• Developing Sexual Identity:  Romantic feelings and a desire to "date" often emerge during adolescence.  These types of relationships may be long lasting, but the experience can shape future relationships.  Some young people do not develop sexual relationships until late in life.
• Searching for New Experiences:  This can be a period of trial and error as identity develops.  Young people are still gaining control over their impulses and can engage in more risk-taking.

These are just a few social changes that young people can undergo.  As parents, teachers, counselors, and role models it is important to remember our role in the decisions that teens make and set a good example for young people to follow!