Synopses & Reviews
This text examines the cognitive, emotional, and biological changes going on within the adolescent as he or she interacts with peers on the road to adulthood. The peer relationship is shown to be the most influential force in this period of development. The author presents a new theory--based on empirical data from research with 2,500 adolescents--that makes it possible to identify stages of adolescent development and reinterpret the importance of the peer group in the development of self-concept. She also discusses practical therapeutic approaches.
Table of Contents
AN HISTORICAL OVERVIEW.
Tasks and Challenges of Adolescence: Divergent Views.
AN ALTERNATIVE ORIENTATION.
Unique Aspects of Adolescence.
Distinguishing Components of the Adolescent World.
Dynamic Centers of Adolescent Growth: Peer Arena and the Comparative Act.
ADOLESCENT SOCIAL INTERACTIONAL LIFE: EMPIRICAL FINDINGS AND PRAGMATIC IMPLICATIONS.
The Psychosocial Influence Field: Adolescent Reference Groups.
Allure of the Adolescent Peer: Attributes of Relevance.
Socialization Practices: Public Postures and Private Contradictions.
How Adolescents Meet: Contacts and Contexts.
Synopsis of Findings: Snapshots of Social Interactional Life.
DEVIANCE AND ITS MISINTERPRETATIONS.
Maladaptations in Smooth Progression: Adolescents in Trouble.
Adolescents Out of the Mainstream: Psychosocial Dimensions and Dangers.
PEER-ORIENTED CLINICAL INSTRUMENTS: THE PEER PROGRESSION BATTERY.
The Socialization Battery.
The Peer Arena Battery.
APPLICATIONS OF THE PEER ARENA MODEL.
Adolescents and Parents: Alternating Currents.
The School Experience: Peer Arena Issues and Implications for Educators and Counselors.
Peer Arena Therapy: A Relevant Intervention Model.
References.