Rapid Social Change and the Turmoil of Adolescence: A Cross-Cultural Perspective

A selective literature review, viewing adolescence in a cross-cultural perspective, leads to the conclusion that, while social adolescence is a universal life stage, it takes very different forms in different societies. Its extension in today's world is linked to urbanization, industrialization, & formal education. Adolescence does not need to be a period of storm & stress, & the generation gap & problem behaviors considered a "normal" part of adolescence are in fact culturally produced. In many situations, these problematic aspects of adolescence are linked to rapid social change or acculturation, most often in the form of Westernization. Societies that manage to keep some continuity, cultural identity, & basic values, such as family solidarity, often also manage to avoid importing the problems of adolescence despite social change. Of importance are the tolerance & flexibility of adults, close contact between generations, appropriate role learning, & acceptance into the adult community, including in the economic sphere. 2 Tables, 98 References. Adapted from the source document.