Adolescent Development in Interpersonal Context

This chapter addresses the psychological processes associated with attaining autonomy and forming interdependent relationships with others during the second decade of life. We divide the chapter into six major sections. First, we provide an overview of the defining features of adolescence, including biological and cognitive maturation and changes in societal expectations of adolescent individuals. Second, we characterize influential conceptual perspectives on adolescence. Third, we outline the expanding social networks of adolescents and the nature and significance of interpersonal relationships with family members, friends, and romantic interests. Fourth, we describe the impact of social contexts, such as neighborhoods, schools, the workplace, and leisure settings. Fifth, we consider key adolescent developmental tasks of achieving both a sense of independence and satisfying and effective interdependent relationships with others. Finally, we consider how this contemporary approach illuminates growth and change during adolescence, as well as differences between childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Keywords: adolescence; independence; interdependence; interpersonal development