Find Your Purpose and Live Your Best Life with the Know Who You Are Program

“Adolescence is when the worst and the best impulse in the human soul struggle against each other for possession.” – G. Stanley Hall

Puberty is a time-period of rapid physiological changes (involving hormonal and other bodily changes). Changes are not limited to body it involves ever changing interests and desires, sexual maturity, increased energy and rebellious behaviour.

Adolescent needs can be laid down in following three categories:

1. Need to stand out: This refers to establishing an identity of your own, be independent and autonomous.
2. Need to fit in: To gain validation, acceptance and sense of belongingness among their peers.
3. Need to achieve: To gain skills, polish their abilities and shine on academic or professional front.

According to Erik Ericson, individuals in teenage distant themselves from parents in order to establish their own identity. It is seen that adolescents engage in risk-taking and pleasure seeking behaviours to fulfil these needs. A lot of self exploration in terms of gender, sexual orientation, beliefs and ethnicity are common during adolescence. Autonomy is closely linked with identity formation as when one takes responsibility of his/her own actions they tend to develop healthy identity.

Common issues that interfere with identity establishment

1. Peer pressure
2. Academic stress
3. Parental expectations
4. Competitive environment
5. Future  concerns
6. Friendships and Relationships
7. Societal standards