Adolescent Development: The Self

Erikson’s identity versus role confusion: Erikson’s fifth stage of psychosocial development.
Self-descriptions now include contradictory traits.
“Trying on” different identities.
Positive and negative identities.

Open lines of communication
* Teens who describe parents as “available” and “understanding”, less likely to engage in risky, dangerous behavior
* Speak transparently but matter of fact and succinctly regarding sexual exploration
Establish and uphold rules and boundaries
* Incorporating warmth, responsiveness, and control
* Reduces drug use and risky behaviors

Self-Esteem During Adolescence
  * Cognitive ability to compare real selves to ideal selves
  * Appearance very important to adolescents
    * Can account for 45–70% of variance in global self-esteem
Gender differences appear early
Racial and ethnic differences exist
* Positive effects of representation, inclusion
Ethnic and Racial Identity
  * Racism consists of:
    * Stereotypes
    * Prejudices
    * Discrimination
      * Microaggressions
  * Institutional racism related to mental health outcomes
    * Toxic stress
  * Racial socialization
Online Identity
  * Experimentation with online self- presentations
  * Impression management
    * Those with lower self-esteem log in more often
  * Selfies
    * Imaginary audience
    * May contribute to narcissism