Download Psychological Issues of Adolescence

San Diego Psychological Association -­‐ Psychological Issues of Adolescence S.D. Unified School District School Counselor Training -­‐ 3/13 Brain development is still in process so teens are vulnerable to impulsiveness and short-­‐term thinking. Erickson’s stage of Identity vs. Role Diffusion (12 -­‐ 18). Development of a secure adult identity verses an unsure sense of identity (increases vulnerability to frustration, hurts, and peer pressure). Transitioning to an adult identity can = rebellious to establish initial identity = “I’m not my parents” Sense of identity unsure = Self-­‐confidence low, Self-­‐consciousness high, Reaction to rejection strong. Progression of dependency = parents > peers > mostly self-­‐reliant. Adolescent challenges include-­‐availability and normality of early sexual activity, teen drinking and drug use, difficulty getting into a good college and paying for it, anticipation of entering a depressed job force where even good college degrees result in no guaranteed employment in your field of study. Teen drama is normal. Brief strong temporary reactions are common and usually no big concern. However, enduring difficulty suggests checking in with the student to see whether referral to a mental health professional would be warranted. Show concern for the student, rather than criticism. M.H. symptoms are sometimes behavioral (i.e. aggression towards a peer or staff member, chronic disruptiveness and/or disrespect, chronic somatic symptoms that can be related to stress, like headaches and digestive problems, failing grades for an obviously capable student, students who appear very socially isolated or are the target of excessive teasing, and students who are excessively absent). Oppositional Defiant Disorder vs. Conduct Disorder (uncooperative plus a lack of conscience/empathy). Classic depression vs. Agitated depression Self-­‐Injurious behavior isn’t always a suicidal gesture. Bipolar Disorder = Depressive episodes and at least one episode of mania, or hypomania, a milder version. Risk up for impulsive behavior when manic and mood can be giddy/silly or irritable/angry. Psychosis = a loss of touch with reality. Auditory or Visual Hallucinations, Delusions (i.e. paranoia). Most common dx. is Schizophrenia. Usually not dangerous unless confronted; prefer distance from others. Anxiety can = a general sense of worry and the expectation of negative occurrences, such as failing a test or a dating relationship ending. Phobia = when the anxiety is focused on the fear of a specific object or circumstance (i.e. public speaking, spiders). Obsessive Compulsive Disorder = repetitive fearful thoughts and corresponding behaviors to reduce the fear (i.e. fear of getting sick may lead to washing hands 20 or 30 times daily). Panic attack = anxiety comes on in a severe wave and feels overwhelming. Eating Disorders. Anorexia = a fear of not being attractive/thin enough so calories restricted. Bulimia = purging calories are balanced by eating binges so the individual may not be particularly thin. EMPOWER TEACHERS TO SHOW INTEREST IN THEIR STUDENTS SO THAT THEY WILL DEVELOP TRUST AND LEARN WHEN STUDENTS HAVE SELF CONCERNS OR ARE WORRIED ABOUT A PEER!