Summary

Adolescent maturation is a personal phase of development where children have to establish their own beliefs, values and what they want to accomplish in life.

It is a time of psychological and psychosexual change. The self-concept an adolescent has reflects their beliefs about themselves.

Young people live in complex social networks that include family, friends, school and the wider community. During mid adolescence there is a strong drive to fit in with a peer group. Young people become more resistant to complying with family rules and attempt to redefine roles and boundaries which lead to increased negotiation and sometimes conflict at home. Middle adolescence is often the most challenging time for young people and their parents. One of the protective factors is resilience, which is the ability to adjust in the face of adversity. It is important to recognise when young people are likely to be experiencing difficulties in their relationships in order to get further help.