Adolescent Coping Mechanisms
Adolescence is a time of transition from childhood to adulthood characterized by physical, emotional, social, and psychological changes. During this phase, teenagers face various challenges that can affect their mental health. One such challenge is the internalization of societal and familial bias, which refers to the beliefs, attitudes, and values that society and families impose upon them. These biases may include stereotypes about gender roles, sexual orientation, race, religion, and socioeconomic status. Adolescents may develop coping mechanisms to deal with these biases.
Internalization of Societal Bias
Society imposes many gendered expectations on adolescents, particularly regarding their appearance, behavior, and career choices.
Girls are often expected to be passive, submissive, and nurturing, while boys are expected to be assertive, dominant, and independent. This pressure can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem in both genders. Adolescents may cope by conforming to societal norms or rebelling against them. Conformity involves adopting gendered behaviors and traits that align with societal expectations. Rebellion involves rejecting these expectations and asserting one's individuality.
Internalization of Familial Bias
Families play a crucial role in shaping adolescents' identities and beliefs. Parents and other family members may hold prejudices based on class, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. These biases can create feelings of guilt, shame, or rejection within teenagers. Some may try to suppress these feelings by denying their identity, while others may embrace it and seek support from peers who share similar experiences. Others may engage in risky behavior such as substance abuse, sexual promiscuity, or criminal activity.
Coping Mechanisms for Identity Development
Adolescents may use various coping mechanisms to deal with the internalization of societal and familial bias. They may seek validation through achievement, recognition, or success in areas that society values highly, such as sports, academics, or extracurricular activities. They may also explore different aspects of their identity through experimentation with clothing, music, art, or lifestyle choices. Self-care practices like meditation, journaling, exercise, or therapy can help manage stress and promote emotional wellbeing. Adolescents should have access to resources that provide information, support, and guidance regarding their identity development.
How do adolescents develop coping mechanisms for the internalization of societal and familial bias?
Adolescence is characterized by increased awareness of one's identity, values, and beliefs. As individuals transition from childhood to adulthood, they are exposed to various external influences that shape their perceptions of themselves and the world around them. One such influence is societal and familial bias, which refers to prejudices or discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or socioeconomic status.