Growing Pains: Explaining Adolescent Violence With Developmental Theory (From Counseling the Adolescent: Individual, Family, and School Interventions, P 57-71, 1988, Jon Carlson and Judith Lewis, eds. -- See NCJ-118364)

• NCJ Number: 118366
• Author(s): R A Winbush
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 15 pages
• Sale Source: Love Publishing Co
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Developmental theory provides an opportunity for counselors to develop new intervention strategies to curb violence by juveniles.

Abstract

Studies indicate that variance among violent behaviors by juveniles correlates with their development in moral reasoning. Regarding violence against self (suicidal tendencies), developmental theory suggests that level of moral development affects perceptions of problems and means of coping with them. Those counseling suicidal juveniles should be informed on developmental issues that can provide insights for dealing with crises. Another form of violence against self is drug and alcohol abuse. Preventive drug education programs as early as elementary school can help forge moral reasoning about drug abuse and healthy means of coping with various adolescent stresses. Violence against others is yoked to stunted moral reasoning that has little appreciation for the feelings and rights of others and for constructive means of coping with various stress factors. Intervention can include group sessions that focus on moral dilemmas and their resolution as a means of increasing adolescents' insight into the positive handling of various stressful events. 41 references, 10 suggested readings.