We introduce this special issue on the individual and contextual bases of adolescent thriving by describing the relational developmental systems theory-based, positive youth development (PYD) perspective that frames much of contemporary research about health and positive development across the adolescent period and that, more specifically, frames…

The transition to adulthood is characterised by both great potential for positive change and a relatively high incidence of problem outcomes. A multidimensional model of positive development during the transition to adulthood (at 19-20 years) has recently been proposed. However, an unresolved question regarding the nature of positive development…

Identity formation is an essential developmental challenge associated with adolescence ([17], [20] and [21]). Berzonsky (1988) developed a social-cognitive model that distinguishes three styles by which adolescents engage the tasks associated with identity formation: informational, normative, and diffuse-avoidant. Focusing on studies (K = 62) that…

Growth curve modelling was used to examine developmental trajectories of sociometric and perceived popularity across eight years in adolescence, and the effects of gender, overt aggression, and relational aggression on these trajectories. Participants were 303 initially popular students (167 girls, 136 boys) for whom sociometric data were…

Gives account of Marcia's identity formation model in language of existentialist philosophy. Examines parallels between ego-identity and existentialist approaches. Describes identity in terms of existentialist concepts of Heidegger and Sartre. Argues that existentialist account of identity formation has benefits of clarification of difficult…

Focal theory is a framework for looking at psychosocial and leisure transitions in middle and later adolescence. Using cross-sectional survey data, found few gender differences in age-related relational transitions, but gender differences were apparent in shifting focuses of leisure involvement with age. Findings suggest a linkage between…

This study drew on two approaches to identity formation, each postulating differing but complementary exploration components, in an effort to better understand the identity exploration process. Overall patterns of results revealed by hierarchical regression analyses were consistent with a process model of exploration and with the view that…

Presents conceptual model for understanding nature, timing, synchronicity, and impact of developmental stressors and their implications for adolescent mental health trajectories. Discusses design of psychoeducational program based on model and presents preliminary results from longitudinal study of short- and long-term effectiveness of program in…

Attempted to integrate indices of connection and individuality into a single, positively related construct. College students (n=101) responded to measures of parenting style, individuation, and ego identity. Results suggest that parental control restricts successful individuation but that adjustment on individuation indices predicts advanced…

Uses a model of social identities to explore the incidence of cigarette smoking among adolescent girls. Found a sharp increase in girls' smoking at about 14 years of age related both to age and to puberty. The model identified "never smoked" and "regular smoker" groups but not occasional smokers. (RJM)