C99CL Cognition across the Lifespan - Adolescence: Theories about Self-Identity

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on adolescence and identity theories, including Freudian and Eriksonian perspectives, social identity theory, and empirical findings from research.

What are the five stages of development according to Freudian theory?

Oral (0-1), Anal (1-3), Phallic (3-5), Latency (5-12/13), Genital (13+).

What two primary tasks must adolescents accomplish according to Freudian theory?

1. Replacement of pre-genital drives with genital primacy - sexuality becomes the major force influencing behaviour and development

2. Resolution of Oedipal conflicts - detachment from the parents and the establishment of mature sexual relations with others.

What is the role of the ego during adolescence?

To control sexual tension in a socially and personally acceptable way.

What psychosocial crisis occurs from ages 13-21 in Erikson's theory?

Identity vs. Confusion.

What does a positive self-identity lead to during adolescence?

It leads to both personal and social adaptation.

What term refers to the fluctuating sense of self during adolescence?

The Barometric self.

What is Social Comparison Theory?

It explains how individuals compare themselves with others to assess their own identity.

What is the main finding of Tarrant et al. (2001) regarding ingroup favoritism among adolescents?

Adolescents rated themselves more positively on dimensions after comparing with an outgroup.

How does hypothetical-deductive reasoning aid adolescents in identity formation?

It allows them to predict social outcomes based on their characteristics and preferences.

What challenges do adolescents face when distancing themselves from their parents?

They often reject their parents' belief systems and must find new ideals among peers.

What did Erikson say about the young individual's need during adolescence?

They must learn to be true to themselves while considering the values of others who matter to them.

What are possible consequences of not being accepted by a positive peer group? - reference

Social isolation, which is linked to issues like delinquency, drinking, and depression. (Hops et al., 1997)

What does positive social identity self-esteem depend on according to Social Identity Theory?

Maintaining a favourable comparison of one's ingroup against an outgroup.

What are the main goals of adolescence according to Erickson?

To establish a positive self identity - if an individual can define themselves in terms that satisfy the self and societal norms then the resulting identity is both personally and socially adapted.

How does Piaget’s Formal Operational thought/hypothetical thinking aid the search for self-identity?

Piaget’s Formal Operation stage and hypothetical thinking directly supports adolescents search for self-identity as it gives them the cognitive ability to think abstractly, hypothetically and reflectively about themselves.

What role do social comparisons play in identity development?

They play a crucial role in adolescents’ identity development as it allows the ability to reflect by comparing their own abilities, traits, values and social roles to others, it gives them a reference point.

It helps them understand where they fit in socially, academically and personally.

What is the importance and positive benefits of being accepted in to positive peer groups? - reference

Positive peer relationships are associated with positive social adjustment - adjusting to a new role in society as a teenager (Ryan & Patrick, 1996)