title: Debunking the myths of adolescence: findings from recent research.
abstract: This review summarizes some of the important research findings on adolescence that have accumulated during the past two decades. Current understanding of the adolescent age-period is first discussed with particular attention to the previously held myths about adolescence. Second, a review of existing studies that have examined the problems and help-seeking behaviors of adolescents is presented. Overall, the majority of recent research findings suggest adolescence should not be characterized as a time of severe emotional upheaval and turmoil because the majority (80%) of adolescents manage this transition quite well. Nevertheless, a sizable proportion of youth (20%) do not fare so well, with many not receiving the help they may need.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL 60611.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Offer
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Schonert-Reichl
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D004644:Emotions; D006801:Humans; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010379:Peer Group; D010553:Personality Development; D011340:Problem Solving; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D011627:Puberty / Q000523:psychology; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology; D000092864:Suicide Prevention