Question

You have a friend whose parents are too indulgent in his/her daily affairs. They think him/her to be still young which makes him/her sad and is upset all the time. As he/she feels that the parents should give him/her opportunity to take independent decision on some issues.

1. Would you support your friend and why?
2. Write the characteristics of this age group.
3. List two curative measures.

Answer 1

1. Yes, I would support my friend. It is important because adolescence is a crucial period where individuals want to become independent and free of restrictions. Giving your friend the opportunity to take independent decisions helps them grow in confidence, develop responsibility, and learn from their experiences. It addresses the sadness and frustration caused by over-indulgent parents who still treat them as very young, which can harm their emotional and mental well-being. Supporting your friend will also help maintain a healthy interpersonal relationship and reduce conflicts.
2. Characteristics of this age group are:
   • It is the transition period between childhood and adulthood, marked by rapid physical, emotional, and mental changes.
   • Adolescents want to become independent and free of restrictions.
   • They prefer to spend more time with friends than family.
   • They aspire to achieve and often fantasize about goals beyond realistic limits.
   • They experience mounting frustrations and conflicts in interpersonal relationships.
   • They learn social skills such as empathy, sharing, and leadership.
   • Peer groups influence their behavior positively or negatively.
   • Vulnerable to emotional, social, and mental challenges such as anxiety, depression, and risk of substance abuse.
3. Two curative measures:
   • Parents should give adolescents opportunities to take independent decisions on some issues, while providing guidance and support, to help them build confidence and responsibility.
   • Encourage open communication and mutual understanding between parents and adolescents to reduce conflicts and frustration, and to support adolescents emotionally during this vulnerable phase.