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Abstract
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VioLit summary:
OBJECTIVE:
The intent of this article by Rubenstein was to describe the developmental tasks and normative behaviors of adolescents in order to provide more effective interventions for this population.
METHODOLOGY:
The author employed a non-experimental design by reviewing literature on (1) the stages of adolescence, (2) the types of adolescent behavior, and (3) clinical approaches to addressing behavioral problems.
FINDINGS/DISCUSSION:
The author identified the three stages of early, middle and late adolescence, through which individuals progressed at different rates. Early adolescence usually occurred between ages 10 and 14, with an internal focus on independence and personal identity. Peer values and concern with physical appearances became increasingly important at this age and conflicts at home revolved around issues of homework, chores and friendship choices. Abstract thinking was just beginning to develop at this stage. Middle adolescence usually occurred between ages 15 and 17, when independence and identity issues increased, along with the frequent rejection of parental values. Obsession with their own physical changes decreased at this stage, although concern over the meaning of masculinity and femininity became more important. Abstract and long-term thoughts developed at this stage with a greater ability to take responsibility for personal actions. Late adolescence usually occurred between the ages of 18 and 21, when independence and identity were well developed. Identity issues and career plans became more clear, peers were important but less able to apply social pressure, and relationships became more intimate. Abstract thought usually became fully developed at this point, with clear perspectives on short- and long-term goals. Data from two separate studies on adolescent behavior indicated the following: substance use was a serious problem, with 80% reporting the use of alcohol, 10% reporting the use of marijuana and over 6% reporting the use of cocaine. Unintentional injuries were the leading cause of death between the ages 15 and 24, with 70% resulting from motor vehicle accidents. More than 40% of tenth graders and 30% of eighth graders reported that within the previous month they rode with a driver who had used drugs or alcohol. Violence occurred at the highest rate between the ages of 12 and 24, with 77% of teenagers reporting they had been in a fight in the past year. Sexual intercourse was occurring at earlier ages among 70% of boys (17 to 21 year olds) and 50% of girls (15 to 19 year olds), with an increase in unwed mothers. Depression and suicidal ideation also increased in puberty, with suicide as one of the leading causes of death among 15 to 24 year olds, and sexually transmitted diseases increased, with one fifth of the AIDS population in their 20s. Finally, school dropout rates increased. Because different teenagers arrived at developmental stages at different times, successful clinicians were aware of their different needs. Another clinical issue was the careful distinction between dysfunctional behavior and normal development, an issue complicated by the various behavioral issues discussed earlier. For this reason, the information obtained by the clinician from outside resources such as schools teachers/counselors, family members, physicians, other therapists and community agencies, was crucial to appropriate intervention. Within the clinical relationship the author suggested the development of trust, a discussion of confidentiality, a careful assessment of cognitive development and the establishment of short-term goals.
AUTHOR'S RECOMMENDATIONS:
Because adolescents posed special treatment issues, the author argued that the successful clinician must possess a thorough understanding of adolescent development and behavior, as well as an arsenal of assessment and treatment strategies.
(CSPV Abstract - Copyright © 1992-2007 by the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence, Institute of Behavioral Science, Regents of the University of Colorado)
KW - Early Adolescence
KW - Late Adolescence
KW - Late Childhood
KW - Literature Review
KW - Juvenile Offender
KW - Juvenile Violence
KW - Juvenile Development
KW - Juvenile Behavior
KW - Juvenile Problem Behavior
KW - Juvenile Substance Use
KW - Child Offender
KW - Child Violence
KW - Child Development
KW - Child Behavior
KW - Child Problem Behavior
KW - Child Substance Use
KW - Youth Development
KW - Clinical Approach
KW - Clinical Treatment
KW - Offender Treatment
KW - Offender Intervention
KW - Alcohol Use Intervention
KW - Alcohol Use Treatment
KW - Drug Use Intervention
KW - Drug Use Treatment
KW - Substance Use Intervention
KW - Substance Use Treatment
KW - Juvenile Treatment
KW - Juvenile Sexual Activity
KW - Child Sexual Activity
KW - Child Treatment
KW - Offender Assessment
KW - Treatment Recommendations
KW - Intervention Recommendations
KW - Counseling
Keywords: Cannabis impaired driving; DUID; Ethanol impaired driving
Language: en |