title: Three myths concerning adolescence.
abstract: This paper examines relevant literature from the seventeenth century to the present regarding myths about adolescence. The findings do not support the contentions that adolescence is a time of rebellious, antisocial, and unacceptable behavior; the concept of adolescence has been present throughout history; and there is a generation gap between adolescents and their parents. Belief in these myths can distort perceptions, thus affecting the way professionals deal with adolescents. Debunking of these myths will allow professionals who work with adolescents to maintain objectivity by helping them distinguish clearly between fact and myths.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000987:Antisocial Personality Disorder / Q000523:psychology*; D003142:Communication; D006801:Humans; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D010553:Personality Development