Social Transitions and Psychosocial Development

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to social transitions and psychosocial development as outlined in the lecture notes.

What is the process through which an individual’s position or status is redefined by society?

Social redefinition.

At what age does the process of social redefinition typically begin in contemporary America?

Age 15 or 16.

What is the term used for the designated age at which an individual is recognized as an adult?

Age of majority.

What is the term for sex between two individuals when at least one is below the legal age of consent?

Statutory rape.

What does the term 'emerging adulthood' refer to?

A period roughly ages 18-25 characterized by exploration and instability.

How long did adolescence last around the 19th century?

About 5 years.

What is meant by the phrase 'the elongation of adolescence'?

Adolescence lasts longer today than in previous eras.

What major change occurred during industrialization that affected adolescence?

It broke the connection between childhood learning and adult knowledge requirements.

Who were the 'child protectionists' in the early 20th century?

Individuals advocating to keep adolescents out of the labor force.

What does the term 'status offense' refer to?

A violation of the law that pertains only to minors.

What percentage of children aged 14-15 show impairment in competencies to stand trial that is similar to mentally ill adults?

One fifth.

What is a common factor that contributes to the transition into adulthood in different cultures?

Economic, political, and cultural factors.

What is the primary argument made by inventionists about adolescence?

That it is mainly a social invention.

What does the phrase 'the process of social redefinition varies across cultures' imply?

The elements defining adulthood differ from culture to culture.

What are 'cohorts' in the context of adolescence?

Groups of individuals born during the same general historical era.

What is a Quinceanera?

An elaborate coming-out celebration for adolescent girls practiced in many Latinx communities.

What does 'continuity of transitions' refer to?

The smoothness and gradual nature of the transition into adulthood.

Which gender roles are more emphasized during the social redefinition process?

Physical and social differences between males and females.

What is an initiation ceremony?

A formal induction of a young person into adulthood.

What does the concept of statutory offense indicate?

Minors can engage in behaviors that are not legal for them.

In terms of autonomy, what shifts occur as individuals gain adult status?

Increased responsibility, independence, and freedom.

What impact does emerging adulthood have on one's psychological well-being?

It can lead to instability and mental health challenges.

What are the five main features characterizing emerging adults?

Identity exploration, instability, focus on self, feeling caught, and sense of possibilities.

How have societal views on adulthood changed according to current trends?

Less emphasis on marriage and parenthood, more on self-reliance.

What is the primary focus at the onset of adolescence?

Preparation for adulthood.

What does the separation from parents symbolize in many cultures during social redefinition?

A rite of passage into adulthood.

How is the transition into adulthood characterized in traditional cultures?

It is usually continuous and well-defined.

What is scarification and its significance in some cultures?

A body ritual marking an individual's transition into adulthood.

What is meant by 'discontinuous transitions'?

Abrupt passages into adult roles and statuses.

What historical comparison is often made when discussing social transitions?

The baby boom generation's transitions vs. today's delays.

What does the term 'youth' refer to in contemporary usage?

Individuals ages 18-22.

Why is autonomy granted in situations considered beneficial?

Because behaviors like access to contraceptives are seen as empowering.

What historical role did apprenticeships play in social transition?

It provided young people hands-on experience related to their future work.

What is the difference between continuous and discontinuous transitions?

Continuous transitions are smooth, while discontinuous transitions are abrupt.

What does it mean when adolescents are segregated from societal institutions?

They have little involvement in politics, work, and family preparation.

At what stage do individuals start facing decisions about intimacy and marriage?

During adolescence.

What was the average time between menarche and marriage by 2010?

15 years.

Why might emerging adulthood not exist in all cultures?

Cultural values and priorities influence the emergence of adulthood.

How does the economic situation impact the age of home leaving?

Rises in housing costs and other economic factors delay independent living.

What societal factors contributed to the evolution of the concept of adolescence?

Industrialization and changing educational expectations.

What does the term 'achievement' refer to in the context of adolescence?

Attainment of certain milestones before achieving adult roles.

How do the roles of worker, parent, and citizen relate to social redefinition?

They are significant roles that adolescents are trained to assume as adults.

What did the term 'teenager' connotate when it was popularized?

A more frivolous and light-hearted image than that of an adolescent.

What is the significance of menarche in defining the start of adolescence?

It is one of the biological markers indicating the onset of adolescence.

How are cultural definitions of adolescence relevant to psychosocial development?

They shape how individuals experience adolescence and adulthood.

What shift in mindset typically occurs as individuals transition to adulthood?

A more serious consideration of future work and family roles.

How did the views on adult responsibilities differ between past and present societies?

Earlier societies had more structured transitions compared to modern, sporadic experiences.

What can the inconsistencies in adolescent legal status lead to?

Confusion regarding the rights and responsibilities of adolescents.

Why might adolescents have limited understanding of their legal rights?

Cognitive and emotional immaturity.

How does the research depict adolescents as criminal defendants?

They are often less competent in understanding legal processes.

What happens when young people are viewed differently in school and work contexts?

They navigate different identities based on their environment.

What does the term 'achievement' reflect in the social transition context?

The responsibility to reach certain age thresholds for adult actions.

What role does body rituals play in marking adolescence?

They often serve as formal recognition of the transition into adulthood.

How does economic force influence emerging adulthood?

It may delay transitions without changing psychological development.

What is the significance of the transition to adulthood in industrialized nations?

Increased costs have led to longer periods living with parents.

How was childhood learning connected to adult roles in pre-industrial societies?

Work tasks were closely related to adult responsibilities.

What is the relationship between cultural expectations and emerging adulthood?

Cultural attitudes affect the timing and nature of responsibilities.

How do economic downturns impact young adults' living situations?

They may return to live with their parents due to financial strain.

What critical decisions do young people face regarding relationships?

Intimacy, dating, and marriage choices.

How does the modern transition into adulthood contrast with past patterns?

More variability and less structure in defining adulthood.

What impacts do societal definitions of adolescence have on mental health?

Can contribute to feelings of instability and anxiety.

What are some common practices in social transitions across different cultures?

Initiation ceremonies, cultural rituals, and shared group experiences.