Social Relationships in Middle & Late Adolescence

Adolescence

It is the transition from childhood to adulthood. It is important because social relationships shape identity, values, and behavior.

Middle Adolescence (14-17)

• Peer-centered and self-discovery.

• Focused on peers, independence from family, identity exploration.

Late Adolescence (18-21)

• Independence, maturity, long-term roles.

• Focused on maturity, responsibility, long-term relationships, and societal roles.

Social Relationships of Middle Adolescence (14-17)

• Peer Groups

• Identity Formation

• Romantic Interests

• Family Conflict

• Emotional Rollercoaster

Peer Groups

Friends = center of life, need for belongingness.

Identity Formation

Experiment with hobbles, beliefs, fashion, and personality.

Romantic Interests

Puppy love, crushes, early dating.

Family Conflict

Desire for Independence arguments with parents.

Emotional Rollercoaster

Mood swings, pressure to be accepted.

Social Relationships of Late Adolescence (18-21)

• Intimate and Mature Bonds

• Independence

• Family Reconnection

• Future-Oriented

• Social Awareness

Intimate & Mature Bonds

Friendships/romantic ties deepen (based on trust & values).

Independence

Responsible decision-making, accountability.

Family Reconnection

Less rebellion, more appreciation of support.

Future-Oriented

College, career, long-term goals.

Social Awareness

Involvement in advocacy, volunteering, and work.

Roles of Individuals in Society for Middle Adolescence

• Family - Authority figures, sometimes controlling.

• Friends/Peers - Belongingness, support, identity, strong influence.

• Teachers/Mentors - Seen as authority; often questioned.

• Community/Society Background role, less awareness.

Roles of Individuals in Society for Late Adolescence

• Family Emotional support and guidance.

• Friends/Peers - Fewer but deeper and long-term.

• Teachers/Mentors - Role models in career/life goals.

• Community/Society - Recognized duty to contribute (volunteering, civic roles).