Pathological Behavior
The rapid emergence and popularity of social media has been correlated with body-image and self-esteem issues in adolescence and young adults, however the true long-term effects of these influences has yet to be seen. Adolescents focus very intensely on their body image as it relates to their emerging sense of independence and identity. In this stage of development, Erikson’s identify v. Role Confusion, the major social influence in an adolescence’s life pivot from the parents and family towards their peers and other “influencers” outside of the home. Read the attached article concerning body image among adolescent males and females and the various factors that influence at-risk behavior. What can parents, teachers, coaches, or peers do to help stabilize body image and reduce pathological behavior during this stage?
