The American Adolescent: Examining the Time of Transitions

Adolescents around the globe go through a series of inevitable transitions as they move toward adulthood. For some, the transitions are difficult and can present problems for the individual and his/her family; and for others, the transitions are smooth and seamless. Teens in America are faced with all sorts of pressures, expectations, insecurities, and doubts, and must manage them across several different contexts: family, peers, academics, social groups, romantic relationships, and so on. The good news for U.S. teens and their parents is that of all adolescents in America, most get through this tricky developmental period unscathed, with strong supportive family systems.