Identities are formed in adolescence. This is a time when young people begin to establish themselves as individuals and take on new roles within their family, school, peer group and wider community. It is also a time of great change for adolescents: they may go through puberty, start to experiment with drugs or alcohol, develop sexual feelings and begin to think about the future.
Adolescents’ identities can be very different from those of adults. They may not have the same set of values or beliefs that are held by adults; they may feel more free to express themselves because they do not yet have any responsibilities such as work or childcare; and they may still need their parents’ approval for some things such as going out with friends. Adolescents often want independence but at the same time need close relationships with other people – this can make it hard for them to know who they really are.
Meli Blog 