Family Life in Adolescence (Adolescence and Society)

This book provides an understanding of the kinds of family environments that produce productive, well-adjusted young people who can make a worthwhile contribution to the society in which they live. Based on extensive research conducted over the last twenty years, the authors investigate what makes the difference between young people who develop into effective young adults and those who get involved in problem behaviours such as binge-drinking, drug-taking, premature sexual activity and delinquent or criminal activities. Topics covered include the development of individual identity, the importance of communication in the family, and how this affects the ways in which adolescents learn about dealing with conflict, solving problems and making decisions. The book also looks at the problems faced by adolescents who live in stepfamilies, or those whose parents divorce, before exploring issues such as running away and youth homelessness. The ultimate focus of the book is on the importance of a warm and accepting family environment, which also requires responsible behaviour from young people. This book will appeal to parents and all those who work with adolescents, including teachers, social workers, youth leaders, and psychologists.