1. Using Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages of Development, we can understand the struggles of both the parents and their 16-year-old son. The son is in the Identity vs. Role Confusion stage, where he is trying to assert independence and develop a sense of self. Losing his driving privileges may feel like a loss of autonomy, leading to defiance. Beyond his school performance, he could be dealing with self-esteem issues, peer pressure, or emotional struggles (Kanel, 2015).
The parents are in the Generativity vs. Stagnation stage, focusing on guiding their child toward responsibility. While enforcing consequences, they may also struggle with frustration, guilt, or external stressors like work or finances. The deeper issue may be a breakdown in communication, where both sides feel unheard or misunderstood. Addressing these struggles through counseling and open dialogue could help bridge the gap between independence and responsibility.
Question for the class: How can parents balance discipline and support when dealing with a rebellious teenager?
2.
By studying Erickson’s stages of psychosocial development I think that the mother is in the Intimacy vs. Isolation stage. “This conflict centers on relationships. When we are able to navigate this period of life successfully, we end up having fulfilling, enduring relationships. Struggling, on the other hand, can result in loneliness, and isolation.”(Cherry, K., 2024) Some people think that intimacy is just about sex, but that’s not true. The mother in this case has had an intimate relationship with her son since he was born. The conflict here is that the son wants his independence and is pulling away from his parents, and the mother struggles with that.
The father, I believe is in the generativity vs. stagnation stage. “Generativity refers to ‘making your mark’ on the world by caring for others , as well as through creating and accomplishing things that make the world a better place.” (Cherry, K., 2024) Stagnation can be related to a midlife crisis. The father may feel like he has let his son down and should have done more to help the boy learn some social skills, and not be rebellious.
The son is going through the Identity vs. Confusion stage. “During this stage, adolescents explore their independence and develop a sense of self. Identity vs. role confusion is a stage characterized by asking ‘Who am I,’ and learning more about your goals, values, and beliefs. (Cherry, K., 2023) The son wants more freedom and is getting to be rebellious. Role confusion exists because at that age you are unsure of who you are and confused about what your role in life would be, Cherry says.
Other difficulties in the family not described in the case study may be, lack of solidarity between the parents and the son, and neglect of social activities with the boy.
Question for the class: How would you handle the situation with getting the son a car?
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