Role Transitions and Role Identities during Adolescence: A Symbolic Interactionist View

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to use symbolic interactionist concepts to conceptualize selected issues from the scholarship on pubertal change, parent-youth relationships, peer associations, sexuality, part-time work, and school involvements during adolescence. Based on this examination, the possibility was raised that role involvements and the timing of specific role transitions for the young may influence the extent to which adolescence becomes a stormy or tranquil period. A final issue considered the possibility that identity formation is influenced by the extent to which adolescents are capable of mastering the developmental challenges of roles and role transitions.