Abstract This paper focuses on the aspects of psychology that specifically affect adolescents. It discusses some of the challenges adolescent psychologists study, such as teenage pregnancy and predisposition to the use of drugs and/or alcohol. It discusses the factors influencing adolescents and how they are able to cope with these external and internal pressures.
From the Paper "Talk therapies and group therapies have both shown progress in treating depressive disorders. Using cognitive therapy, and the understanding that emotional health is linked to thought patterns and beliefs, psychologists can explore events and feelings that have been painful to the adolescent. They can help the patient develop new coping skills and adjust a pessimistic or negative outlook that creates a self-fulfilling prophecy. Group therapy also utilizes cognitive therapy but can make sessions less threatening. In addition, they can teach valuable social skills (Battle)."
Abstract This paper proposes a case study in psychological assessment. According to the paper, this case study is detailed examination of a group of adolescents. This study measures the attitude of adolescents and how their attitude affects their relationships with their parents.
Outline:
Methodology
Sampling Unit
Sampling Frame
Method of Selecting the Sample Elements
Participants
Data Collection
Scale Development
Data Analysis
Dependent Variable
Independent Variables
Questionnaires
Reliability and Validity of the Results
Advantages
Delimitations
Ethical Issues
Questionnaire Design
Past and Present Behavior
From the Paper "Firstly, the age and gender of the children will be taken into consideration when selecting the sampling frame for analysis. The age and gender of the children should be between 14 and 19 years. This is because the children chosen in this study will be divided into two groups pertaining to their age and gender: children in the first group will include 2 boys and 2 girls from ages 14-16, children in the second group will include 2 boys and 2 girls from ages 16-19. Secondly, orphans and children, who are not living with their parents, will not be considered as this study concentrates on the attitude of adolescents and how their attitude affects their relationships with their parents."
Abstract This paper examines and compares three studies on adolescents who work part-time in the United States. The paper seeks to refute the common wisdom that holds work experience to be beneficial to youth in increasing their responsibility and self-reliance. The author also discusses the ramifications of the studies' conclusions on educators and parents.
From the paper:
"Unfortunately, many of the jobs that junior high and high school students are employed at are neither challenging nor stimulating. Adolescents often work in repetitive, uninteresting service jobs such as a retail clerk or fast food worker. These jobs do not develop higher skills or allow the worker to explore their interests, or even to make important decisions on the job. Since working does not ipso facto increase responsibility or self-reliance in adolescence (and can even lead to deleterious effects) (Steinberg & Dornbusch, 1991), there is no reason to encourage teenagers to work in these types of jobs."
Abstract Sociology refers to the scientific study of society, while psychology refers to the study of individuals. However, psychology can be aptly described as the study of the mind. Conventionally, "identity" was a personal quality. Erik Erikson, personality psychologist, discovered the term 'identity crisis' in the framework of personal human development when he talked about the ontological suspicions facing the adolescent self. This term, however, got shifted to sociology by taking into account the personal characteristics of groups. This paper explores the concept of identity with regard to youth, human behavior and work place behaviors.
Paper Outline:
Social and Psychological Concept of Identity
Identity in Relation to Youth
Identity in Relation to Human Behavior
Identity in Relation to Human Behavior in the World of Work
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "Every adolescent tries to find his identity. Adolescence is a psychological phase as well as a socio-cultural phenomenon. Three theorists focus on the identity of youth. Erikson, through the ego-psychological theory, deals with youth as a stage of identity crisis. Marcia relates identity with the obligations of later adolescence: work, occupation, political orientation and he differentiate diverse kinds of types or typologies of adolescents. Erich Fromm concentrates on the socialization of an individual from the viewpoint of his or her struggle for independence; according to him, each individual tries to generate his own identity."
Abstract This paper presents a study on understanding the adolescent experiences in relation to Gaucher's Disease. The hypotheses for the study are ?Adolescents with Gaucher's Disease have a different perspective of the self than adolescents not diagnosed with a chronic illness? and ?Adolescents with Gaucher's Disease perceive friendships and social interactions differently than adolescents who do not have a chronic illness?. In relation to the hypotheses, the study concentrates more on understanding how identity or self in adolescence is being affected by the Gaucher's Disease.
From the Paper "People think of themselves as optimists or pessimists, and this is a reflection of our personality traits in opposites. The questions of being emotional or unemotional, dependent or independent, aggressive or passive, leader or follower, adventurous or cautious are also marks of these opposing traits. Most of these are natural inborn temperaments, but some of the characteristics of man like the feelings of competence or inferiority, and appearances as learned are based on the support and challenges faced by us during growing up. Erik Erickson explored this concept thoroughly. Though he had a great influence of Freud, the existence of ego from birth, and that behavior not being totally defensive were also his beliefs. He studied Sioux Indians on a reservation, and this made him aware of the great influence of culture on behavior. This made him place a lot of stress on the external world, like war and depression."
This paper addresses adolescent substance abuse from a scientific standpoint, delving into different theories of addiction, as well as some sociology of adolescence, in order to present the two different factors present in the formation of substance abuse
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 9 sources, 2002, $ 89.95
Abstract This paper addresses adolescent substance abuse from a scientific standpoint, delving into different theories of addiction, as well as some sociology of adolescence, in order to present the two different factors present in the formation of substance abuse habits in adolescence. These factors are embodied by the disease theory and the psychosocial theory of addiction, which are both explained in the essay.
Abstract This paper compares and contrasts adolescents and senior adults in terms of social and physical development. The paper describes, in detail, each stage of development and characterizes each by traits and characteristics that are specific to them. The paper concludes that these two stages possesses more similarities than differences.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
A Developmental Comparison between Adolescents and Senior Adults
Adolescence Senior Adults (Late Adulthood)
Conclusion
From the Paper "Late adulthood bears a transition that follows a somewhat reverse order from that of adolescents. While adolescence begins with physical changes, the ushering in of late adulthood begins with a social change, that of retirement. It signifies the end of one's productive role in society while adolescents are just beginning to establish theirs. Retirement also means severing one's ties with colleagues and work associates or friends, a type of isolation that can be difficult to face. Adolescents face nearly the opposite challenge of initiating and forging social ties within school and community, and changing the relationship between members of family. The social skills they learn within this stage carries on into young and middle adulthood. As one ages, physical aging starts to manifest itself in subtle ways, becoming more obvious with time. It is this impending sense of mortality that preoccupies elderly persons as they get older - spouses, relatives and friends die. While death is a normal part of life, the final milestone - a sense of accomplishment and pride in one's well-lived life - would be achieved."
Abstract In this paper, the risk factors and reasons for suicide among young people is discussed extensively. The paper also explains how many gay and lesbian adolescents, who commit suicide, leave behind a myriad of unanswered questions for their families struggling with their death. It maintains that suicide does not differ among any social or economic class. The paper concludes that there is a high rate of suicide among African-American lesbian adolescents and a lack of family support, which may contribute to the fatal action.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Literature Review
Method
Data Analysis
Discussion and Recommendations
From the Paper "In recent years, sexual preference has come into view as a leading cause for adolescent suicide. The difficulties of dealing with the stigma of homosexuality might lead to depression and even suicide among gay men and lesbians is commonly known. When emerging sexuality becomes a central issue in young lives, depression and suicide are more likely to happen (Russell & Joyner, 2001)."
Abstract This paper attempts to address the topic of developmental psychology, also known as human development. This scientific area of study within the field of psychology focuses on the study of the gradual psychological changes that take place in human beings as they mature. The paper discusses how, historically, this subject area dealt primarily with the psychological development in infants and children, and later expanded its focus to other periods of psychological and physical change, such as adolescence and aging.
Outline:
Introduction
History
Categorization by Age and Stage in the Lifecycle
Some Important Theories
Stage Theory
Incremental/Continuous Theories
Social Contextualism
Ecological Systems Theory
Methods Adopted in the Field
Conclusion
From the Paper "The thoughts of the Soviet researcher Lev Vygotsky are gradually gaining more popularity in the field of American psychology. In the field of developmental psychology, in specific, his ground-breaking work relating to the significance of social interactions and the so-called "zone of proximal development" is now recognized. Vygotsy based his theory on three premises namely: (a) humans are associated with the physical world and each other by processes of cultural mediation that utilize both psychological and technical tools of the surrounding culture, (b) cultural mediation and, therefore, human psychological functions go through uninterrupted and lifelong alterations, and (c) human psychological functions arise from practical activity in specific contexts. Thus cultural groups have a significant impact on cognition and its development and cognition is a dynamic activity in which the individual both shapes and is shaped by the environmental surroundings. (The Vygotsky Project)"
Tags: developmental, Psychology, Human Development, Piaget, Infancy, Childhood
This paper discusses depression in adolescents, looking at different types of depressions, what causes them, and what can be done to help those who are suffering.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 7 sources, 2001, $ 50.95
Abstract This paper looks at depression, and how this serious condition that affects a large number of adolescents. The author defines the symptoms, how adults need to recognize the warning signs, what the contributing factors are, and the various treatments available. The paper also discusses the several types of depression that affect young adults, and the importance of family and peer support.
From the Paper "Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness. It is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of sleep, loss of appetite, headaches, along with many others. There are also various types of depression. In the last few decades there has been a rise in depression, especially in teenagers. The National Mental Health Association states that depression effects one in eight adolescents in the United States, Roy , 1999. Early detection is the key in helping people with depression. Symptoms of depression can include a drastic change in personality, persistent sadness, hopelessness, irritability, agitation, withdrawal and isolation from friends and activities, changes in eating and sleeping habits, indecision, lack of concentration, forgetfulness, low self-esteem, guilt, physical complaints like headaches and stomachaches, low enthusiasm, low energy, low motivation, drug or alcohol abuse, and thoughts of suicide."
Abstract This paper discusses the concept of self-esteem and the functionality thereof regarding mental health. The paper focuses on the issues relevant to self-esteem in adolescence. The paper explains that child psychologists claim that the higher a child's self-esteem level becomes, the healthier the mental state of the child will be. The paper provides a brief overview of various studies on this topic.
From the Paper "Over the past century, the concept of self-esteem has grown from an infantile theory to an indisputable set of mental health doctrines. It is almost universally preached by child psychologists that the higher a child's self-esteem level becomes, the healthier the mental state of the child will be. Common understanding of the functionality of self-esteem also includes that perception of the self would directly correlate to how high or low one's self esteem levels would be, and also that one's perception of others would be a determining factor of self perception and self esteem levels. It seems logical as well that having a positive self-image would translate into high self-esteem levels, and that high self-esteem would lead to positive behavior. However, self-esteem is not as simple as the motivational mantras of school counselors and self-help therapists would seem to imply. The adolescent has a particularly complex relationship with self perception and self-esteem because of many complicated internal and external factors affecting this age group."
Abstract This paper presents a journal article critique of a 2002 research study that examines same-sex peer relations and romantic relationships during early adolescence, and their impact on emotional, behavioral, and academic adjustment.
From the Paper "Brendgen et al offers a report of a quantitative study on early adolescents in order to determine the impact of same-sex peer relations and romantic relationships during early adolescence on emotional behavioral and academic adjustment. Using Sullivan's theory of social development the authors attempt to corroborate Sullivan's claim that..."
Abstract The paper discusses a research study that measures the effect of emotional intelligence on the success or failure of adolescents to control their addictive behavior of smoking. The paper provides a critical literature review on understanding emotional intelligence and addictive behavior. The paper explains the study results that support the hypothesis that students with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to deal with the stresses in life and therefore have a greater chance for success in smoking cessation programs. The paper discusses how the research shows the importance of developing better programs to help combat stress at school and on the job later in life.
Outline:
Methodology
Integrative Summary and Critique
Critical Literature Review
Conclusion
From the Paper "The purpose of this research is to determine the impact of emotional intelligence on the success of various strategies to prevent smoking in adolescents. A number of methods have been attempted including in-school programs, clinical smoking interventions, increasing tobacco tax, and an anti-smoking media campaign. All of these programs have demonstrated some ability to reduce smoking in adolescents. However, none of them have proven to be 100% effective in stopping adolescent smoking. This study will examine the role of emotional intelligence in the decision to engage, or not engage in smoking behaviors."
Abstract This paper reviews recent studies that attempt to identify the psychological factors"body dissatisfaction, self-esteem, perfectionism and abuse"associated with bulimia nervosa and women. While perfectionism and abuse have been hypothesized as risk factors in the multifactorial model of bulimia, body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem seem to contribute more to bulimic behavior. However, the processes that might account for such a link are not yet well understood. The review of literature aids in developing a framework for further research and treatment.
From the Paper "In the past 20 years, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased dramatically, where approximately 90 percent of patients suffering from an eating disorder are female aged 15 to 29. The two main types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa (more commonly known as anorexia and bulimia). Their prevalence estimates tend to range from about 3 to 10 percent of women with bulimic patients outnumbering anorexic patients by at least 2 to 1. Both can lead to a wide range of physical health complications, including serious heart conditions and kidney failure, which may lead to death. In the United States, they appear to be about as common in Hispanic women as in Caucasians, more common among Native Americans, and less common among blacks and Asians."
Abstract This paper describes three basic angles of the media's impact on adolescent self-perception. The paper illustrates the media's most positive portrayal of teenagers and its more customary negative angle. It provides real world examples of the state of adolescence in America. The paper explores how and why corporate America and the media affect the nation's children.
Table of Contents
I. Fear is in the TV: Media images of an adolescent world
II. Truth is in the Streets: The rest of the story
III. Autopsy Reports in the Profit Margins: What does Corporate America have to gain?
a. Media Stock in Violence
b. Drug Companies and the New Marketplace
c. Get Tough on Crime (it's easy on the approval ratings)
d. Selling Popularity
IV. I Don?t Want to Be Part of Your World: Self-definition and other underage options
a. Media Complications and Youth Reactions
b. Self-Definition and Viable Options
V. Summary
VI. Sources Used
From the Paper "I began work on this paper with every intention of sticking to traditional subjects. I planned to discuss media portrayal of women and beauty, the formation of high school "cool" through marketing and media pressure, and the legalities of advertising to teenagers. Along the way I expected to discuss such random issues as cartoon characters and smoking campaigns. However, once I actually started my research, an entirely different topic kept popping up over and over again: the negative media portrayal of teenagers and the wholesale selling of violence and mind-altering drugs.
"Multiple school shootings have passed in recent memory. Daily news reports continue to be filled with stories of adolescent murderers and children in adult prisons. The question then presented itself to my mind, how does all this negative media coverage affect the way teens view themselves, and the way in which they interact with the world? Are teens today really more violent, and if so, is that the fault of the entertainment media or some other cause? What is it like to be part of a subculture that takes the brunt of these media scandals? Is it all hype, and does the hype worsen the problem?
Increasingly my other research seemed to pale in comparison to these questions. One day when I was at the library, a boy walked by wearing a Marilyn Manson T-shirt that piqued my interest and made up my mind as to how I should approach this paper. It read: "Is adult entertainment killing our children, or is killing children entertaining our adults?" I set myself the task of answering that question, and further exploring how media messages on violence and group conformity might change the self-perception and self-identification of adolescents, with a focus on the events at Columbine.
There are three basic angles that I felt needed to be explored. First, I attempted to explain the media's most positive portrayal of teenagers and its more customary, negative angle. Then I contrasted these stereotypes with a few real-world truths about the state of adolescence in America. Finally, I tried to explore how and just as importantly, why, corporate America and the general media have affected our children."
