What is Adolescence?

Developmental Psychopathology View Normal versus atypical development Key developmental concepts: –Importance of considering multiple contexts –Children actively shape their environments

Models of Adolescent Development G. Stanley Hall -- ‘Sturm und Drang’ Life-Span model, including Erikson Learning theories Psychodynamic Sociological models Cognitive-developmental Biopsychosocial models

Life Span Model Early development influences, but does not determine, later development Baltes’ three person/environment influences: –Normative age-graded –Normative history-graded –Non-normative Erikson - (building on Havighurst) –Mastery of developmental task: Identity

Learning Theories Classical or operant conditioning: Emphasis on observable behavior Behavior controlled by environment Social learning theory –Learn through observing, especially powerful or nurturant models Cognitive-behavioral models - emphasize learning beliefs

Psychodynamic Models S. Freud Anna Freud Peter Blos

Models from Sociology, Anthropology Kingsley Davis: Sociological Model –Occupation –Reproductive control –Autonomy from authority of family Anthropological Models –Critique Western universal theories –Examine meaning of biological changes

Cognitive-Developmental Models Piagetian Theory most influential –Formal operations begins for many during adolescence –Conceptualize what is possible, and ‘meta- cognition’ –Ego-centrism often viewed as a function of fascination with own mental processes –Elkind: imaginary audience, personal fable

Biopsychosocial Models Historically, biological models were ‘organismic’ More recently, models emphasize reciprocal pathways among biological, psychological, and social context Goodness of fit

Arnett: Emerging Adulthood Most current theorists: Adolescence is from ages Emerging adulthood: Experimentation, exploration –Usually, not committed in love or work. Try out different possibilities. –Highest rate of residential change of any age group

Research Models Experimental versus quasi-experimental designs Features of developmental approach –Risk factors –Developmental pathways Longitudinal designs –Process approach –Types and advantages of longitudinal designs –Developmental Transitions Nature/nurture

Risk Factors Risk versus causality Bundling of risk factors Risk factors versus vulnerability factors Risk factors versus protective factors Resilience

Developmental Pathways Equifinality Multifinality

Advantage of Longitudinal Designs: Process Approach Process by which developmental pathways go astray over time Takes into account normal developmental trajectories, and developmental levels

Other Advantages of Longitudinal Designs Not dependent on possibly biased recall of the past Examine stability and growth, and what influences it