Page 176 - Meeting with Children Book

P a ge | 174

3- 5 years: Initiative vs. Guilt
6 through teens: Industry vs. Inferiority
Teens - 20's: Identity vs. Role
Confusion
20's- 40's: Intimacy vs. Isolation
40's - 60's: Generativity vs.
Stagnation
60's - beyond Ego Integrity vs. Despair
Youth from 13-18 years of age in this model are in the
stage of Identity vs. Role Confusion.

The identity stage of development is unique because it is a
synthesis of the earlier stages and a gateway to the
following stages. It is the bridge between childhood and
adulthood. It is a time of great physical and emotional
change as it includes the ability to understand one's own
intentions and the intentions of others including an
increased awareness related to the role he/she will serve in
society. Identity formation can occur over a longer age span
as it takes time to gain the skills needed to perform adult
tasks. Often, identity development continues until the end
of the twenties as this includes identity in occupation,
gender roles, politics, and, in some cultures, religion.

The adolescent is now concerned about inner and outer
continuity (internal meanings and outer appearances).
There are individual stages within this age band, as 13-year-
olds are dealing with the emotional and physical changes
that accompany puberty. This is accompanied by lack of
certainty, moodiness, sensitivity, and self-consciousness. It
is a critical period for fitting in with peers.

By 14 years the adolescent has become more familiar with
puberty and its impact. There will be fewer mood swings at
this time and this age is seeking more freedom and
privileges from parents; sometimes more than they can
handle. This age no longer looks or acts as child-like as 13