Introduction

The ages of 11 to 13 are usually referred to as early adolescence and 14 to 16 as mid adolescence. Emotional development involves abstract thinking, morality and the formation of identity. Social development is about developing autonomy and changing relationships within the family and with peers.

Friendships and the relationships with peers become more important in the lives of most young people during this age. As they move through these years, adolescents have a need to be with peers. Advances in technology have increased the circle of relationships, but these are not always traditional face to face ones. The ability for interaction to happen continuously by phone, text or online can bring advantages and disadvantages.

There are large individual differences in circumstances for this age group, for instance one 16 year old may have a job, have left home and be in a relationship, whereas others are still at school and live with their parents.