Adolescence: Identity Formation

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16 pages in length. Developing a sound and positive identity is the result of myriad factors, many of which are out of the control of the individual whose character is at stake. Two of the most significant external influences upon the formation of adolescent identity - peers and parents - help to either guide the teenager down a road of constructive psychological growth by virtue of positive interaction or drop him into a quagmire of self-doubt and self-loathing from inadequate - or downright detrimental - relations. Starting off on the right foot requires parental involvement on such a level that carries the child into adolescence with a strong sense of self so as to ward off inappropriate temptations from peers that may undo the positive influence associated with good parenting. Contrastingly, strong peer associations can redirect an adolescent whose upbringing has been less than effective in cultivating a positive self-image. Bibliography lists 14 sources.