In chapter 8 of the Lifesmart text they cover the very touchy subject of adolescence. Adolescence is a very hard subject for people of all ages to discuss. It is difficult for young adults to go though this stage in life and it is also difficult for their parents/adult figures to talk about the changes that they will be going through. Although the changes that happen during adolescence are completely normal and happen to everyone, these changes such as: developing your sexual identity, going through puberty, and physical development make people uncomfortable to discuss.
I was interested in the two of the different theories of the psychologists that were covered on page 194 of the Lifesmart text. In Erik Erikson's psychologic theory adolescence is the fifth stage of development. I really agree with the statement, " The main task is to achieve a state of identity, something to which on strives, rather that a final,definitive identity." ( Lifesmart, 194). I think this is a great outlook on adolescence. I believe so many young adults struggle with identity at this age. They are trying so hard to find out where they fit in and where they should be going for the rest of their lives. I think this shows that Erikson believes that adolescents should try to focus on finding an identity that is appropriate for their age and allows them to develop their own personal values without being forced into an identity that is not what they believe in.
James Marcia's theory stresses two important factors in developing ones identity: crisis and commitment. He says that the person must undergo several crises relating to choice. Then they must decide to commit to these choices. (Lifesmart, 194) I can personally relate to this idea when I was an adolescent I remember trying to make the decision if I really wanted to follow my Catholic upbringing. My friends and I would discuss our religions and I can remember being curious about other religions. One of my good friends started bringing me to her Christian church and later to Christian bible camp. Although Catholics are Christians there were many beliefs and ideas that were much different from what I was taught as a child. I was interested in her churches ideas and I had to make the choice to change my beliefs.
I really liked your quote, "The main task is to achieve a state of identity, something to which on strives, rather that a final,definitive identity." The one things I wish Erickson reintroduced in his theory was the strive for identity even past our adolescence.
ReplyDeleteAdolescence is such a difficult time for everyone involved or in contact with the adolescent. It was difficult to go through myself, and it is really difficult to be a parent with 3 kids going through it at once. I sometimes have to remind myself that this too shall pass.
ReplyDeleteI can identify with your difficult decision about religion because my family left the Catholic church when I was 12 and it caused many problems with my dad's family for quite some time. The choice to attend a non-denominational church shaped my teen years greatly, and continues to influence me today. Great decision on my parent's part to follow their yearning for a more personal relationship with Christ even though it brought temporary difficulty to their extended family.
Adolescence is such a difficult time for everyone involved or in contact with the adolescent. It was difficult to go through myself, and it is really difficult to be a parent with 3 kids going through it at once. I sometimes have to remind myself that this too shall pass.
ReplyDeleteI can identify with your difficult decision about religion because my family left the Catholic church when I was 12 and it caused many problems with my dad's family for quite some time. The choice to attend a non-denominational church shaped my teen years greatly, and continues to influence me today. Great decision on my parent's part to follow their yearning for a more personal relationship with Christ even though it brought temporary difficulty to their extended family.
Thank you for sharing your spirituality crisis. I experienced something similar in my life. I was raised catholic but after trying out some different churches my family decided to go to a non denominational church which we fell in love with. It is important to stay true to your convictions and always be open to new ideas and experiences. This transition to a non denominational church has played a big role in my spirituality.
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