Stereotyping During Adolescence

Adolescence is a transitional stage from childhood that is accompanied by change in physiques, emotions, psychological and social factors. During this stage, most adolescents become rebellious, ignoring their parents instructions, and rather embrace rules that make them comfortable. One of the characteristics of teen development can also be influenced by peer pressure. Even though most adolescents are said to be rebellious during this developmental stage, it is also important to look at the cultural context in which they behave. Martin (2014) suggests what may be considered normative and emotionally healthy within one culture, and what is considered respectful and honorable behavior may all be seen as a signs of disrespect in a different culture (p. 124). Culture is a very important issue to consider when dealing with adolescents behavior else one may conclude by stereotyping that all adolescents are disrespectful and rebellious.

125). During this stage, adolescents may be exposed to illegal drugs, and alcohol which may have the tendency to decrease or damage their brain development. Squeglia, Jacobus, and Tapert, (2009) note that in the process of neurological development, drugs and alcohol have the tendency to affect the brain’s maturation and brain development (pp. 31-38). The stage of adolescence is accompanied by a swift change from childhood in terms of psychosocial, emotional and biological makeup and exposures to drugs or alcohol can have developmental effects on teens. Quite apart from substance abuse that can affect development in the brain, teens who are exposed to abusive environment face traumas that can alter their