The Quarter-Life Crisis: The Lack of Identity Development Support in Adolescents

Abstract

The adolescent stage of development involves wide-scale neurological growth, thus allowing for a considerable emergence of mental health disorder symptoms, stemming from imbalances within the brain. Identity formation is a significant factor in adolescent maturation; however, rapid development can result in small-scale identity crises. Lack of identity development support in a teenager’s environment can lead to discrepancies between their self-concept and the societal image they present, otherwise known as identity regression. During the adolescent period of growth, teenagers evolve into fully-functioning members of society which is undoubtedly a critical stage that would benefit from identity development support. In order to prevent future difficulties, it is crucial to establish a nurturing foundation that is accepting of mistakes. Establishing healthy behaviors that are suitable to one’s environment can assist in identifying the vulnerabilities that arise within teenagers, in turn potentially avoiding many more severe mental disorder symptoms.