Social Development

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One of the most important tasks during early adolescence is the development of an identity, that is independent of family and peers. Prior to early adolescence identity was tied to family and parents. During the years 10-15 the child begins to look inward for his or her sense of self and begins to move outward from their family of origin (family they grew up with). This is the time of reorientation of the self-concept. This is a period of reflective questioning, who am I , what is my role within the family, what is my role with my friends, It is also a period of intense egocentricism- Early adolescents act as if they are on stage and everyone is watching them and noticing every little detail about them. Part of being focused only on themselves is the tendency to not be aware of the needs of others including family, friends and even the family dog. The social development of the early adolescent will result in an individual who has developed a sense of self and an understanding of who they are in relation to others, an understanding of the needs of those around them, the development of peer relationships which augment the relationships within the family. Unfortunately this process will not be completed until they are in their early twenties.

Caissy, G. A. (1994). Early Adolescence Understanding the 10-15 year old. Plenum Press, New York.Pipher M. (1994). Reviving Ophelia (Saving the selves of adolescent girls), Ballantine Books, New YorkSimmons, R.(2002). Odd Girl Out. Harcourt Inc. New York.

Social development

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