Developmental Tasks of Adolescence
Robert Havighurst outlines eleven cognitive developmental tasks unique to adolescence. The eleven tasks include burgeoning awareness of the changing human body and increased independence from the parents. Although the tasks do not entail eleven distinct stages of adolescence, Havighurst notes that early, middle, and late adolescence do pertain do particular developmental issues. For example, early adolescence comprises an acute consciousness of changes in the body. Additionally, the young adolescent tries hard to fit in with peer groups. As the teenager grows more mature, independence and nonconformity take precedence over wanting to fit in. Moreover, the adolescent in the middle stage tends to become preoccupied with sexual relations and developing a conscious identity distinct from the parents. Finally, late adolescence includes tasks related to preparation for adulthood including career development.
In sum, the eleven tasks of adolescent cognitive development include the following. First, adolescents develop a new awareness of the body, which undergoes intense changes. Second, the adolescent develops new ways of thinking, especially an increased ability to think abstractly. Third, increased cognitive demands in school challenge the adolescent. Fourth, the adolescent must develop more mature verbal communication skills. Fifth, the teenager will develop an ego separate from the parents, whereas in childhood the ego remained closely linked to that of the parents. Sixth, the adolescent formulates clearer career goals. The seventh task of adolescent development comprises the psychological detachment from the parents, often entailing interpersonal conflicts and difficulties relating to authority figures. Eighth, the adolescent develops stronger relationships with peers that help him or her formulate a sense of self. The ninth task of adolescence relates to the development of the sexual self: the teenager also comes to terms with gender issues. Tenth, the adolescent develops a personal system of values that may remain with the individual throughout the lifetime. The eleventh and final state regards controlling immature impulses and becoming a more mature manager of instincts and behaviors.
