Stereotyping During Adolescence

Adolescence is a transitional stage from childhood that is accompanied by change in physiques, emotions, psychological and social factors. During this stage, most adolescents become rebellious, ignoring their parents instructions, and rather embrace rules that make them comfortable. One of the characteristics of teen development can also be influenced by peer pressure. Even though most adolescents are said to be rebellious during this developmental stage, it is also important to look at the cultural context in which they behave. Martin (2014) suggests what may be considered normative and emotionally healthy within one culture, and what is considered respectful and honorable behavior may all be seen as a signs of disrespect in a different culture (p. 124). Culture is a very important issue to consider when dealing with adolescents behavior else one may conclude by stereotyping that all adolescents are disrespectful and rebellious.

It is also important to recognize that adolescence is a time of stress; where individuals want to try difference things which involve exploring undiscovered issues, attitudes, and behaviors (Martin, 2011, p.

125). During this stage, adolescents may be exposed to illegal drugs, and alcohol which may have the tendency to decrease or damage their brain development. Squeglia, Jacobus, and Tapert, (2009) note that in the process of neurological development, drugs and alcohol have the tendency to affect the brain’s maturation and brain development (pp. 31-38). The stage of adolescence is accompanied by a swift change from childhood in terms of psychosocial, emotional and biological makeup and exposures to drugs or alcohol can have developmental effects on teens. Quite apart from substance abuse that can affect development in the brain, teens who are exposed to abusive environment face traumas that can alter their

developments.
There are many kinds of abuse but to limit this paper, sexual abuse will be focused on. Children who have been abused have often been diagnosed of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which may affect development of the brain. Abused children with PTSD suggested that traumatic stress in children produces chemical changes in the brain that disrupt or alter developmental processes (Brain development affected by child sexual abuse, 2002). Teens who suffer sexual abuse may not necessarily face immediate effect. However, these effects may end up having problems later in their relationships. Teens who find themselves in this abusive environment may also experience depression and anxiety. The frequent thought of how neglected and abused they have been, pose a risk of depression and lack of focus in either academically or their social lives. Broderick and Blewitt (2014) also supports that behavioral disorder such as antisocial personality traits, abuse of alcohol, and the possible drop out of school traits associated with adolescence abuse (p. 68).
Spirituality plays a crucial role in the control or prevention of addiction in adolescence. Adolescents who are committed or bound by strict religious doctrines have the tendency to control drug and alcohol abuse. Appropriate behaviors and interpersonal skills are rooted in religious doctrines and one’s commitment to faith (Roehlkepartain, King, Wagener and Benson, 2005, p. 226). There are many religious denominations that emphasize on drug and alcohol abstinence. Even though these rules are broken frequently, it still becomes important for religious leaders and parent to advice their teens on the effects.
Addiction may be seen to be prevalent in adolescents, it is important to distinguish factors that drive adolescents to behave in a way that they do. Human services professionals or counsellors must not always assume a standard counseling procedure or treatment for rebellious teens. Instead, they must look at the context in which their behaviors are influenced. Whether these behaviors are influenced by peers or parental history. Counsellors can also ensure that there are adequate program development and supportive services tailored to meet the needs of adolescents (Martin, 2014, p. 138). Human service professionals must also be willing to deal with suicidal thoughts from adolescents from an emotional and social perspective through education and intervention plans.