| Abstract: | A knowledge of normal adolescent development and the adolescent's own stage of psychosocial development is necessary in evaluating the significance of his behavior. Understanding the youngster's previous development is useful as those experiences will influence how well he will master the adolescent task of identity formation. Issues which directly impact on this developmental task include separation from parents, peer support, changes in body and body image, sexuality, development of abstract reasoning, and career choice. Difficulty in resolving any of these issues may result in a behavior disturbance. The evaluation of the adolescent's functioning in various life spheres at school, with peers, and at home should enable the professional to better determine whether a teenager's behavior is normal or a symptom of an emotional problem. Professionals, particularly those in schools, should take advantage of their interaction with adolescents in order to asssess behavior and identify the presence of underlying problems. |
