Week 2 Reflection
Is being an adolescent mostly the same as it has always been or has it changed dramatically. What would Erikson say to this question and why? How do you think Erikson say we should change as teachers if we should at all?
I think that humankind has altered development, or our perception of what development looks like and when it should occur, with the introduction of technology to our social being and our environment. Food laced with hormones has altered physical development. Television, telephones, satellites, the Internet, and cell phones have redefined how we communicate, how quickly information is disseminated, and where influence comes from - our informational community has grown. Nevertheless, I don't think the developmental stage of adolescence with identity development has changed, but what influences that development has changed. I think Erikson would agree with me because adolescence is still the time of gaining autonomy and exploring identity. As teachers, I think Erikson would stress the need to understand that the social and emotional development of the adolescent has not changed but that we need to be aware of the broadening of the influencers on adolescents and how this is creating a culture of comparison and competition that enhances stressors that negatively impact adolescent mental health. Parents are also falling into the comparison and competitive culture, adding to the stress of their lives and that of their children. No longer are the "Joneses" next door, but there is now pressure to present the perfect life and to keep up with the "Kardashians."
I think that humankind has altered development, or our perception of what development looks like and when it should occur, with the introduction of technology to our social being and our environment. Food laced with hormones has altered physical development. Television, telephones, satellites, the Internet, and cell phones have redefined how we communicate, how quickly information is disseminated, and where influence comes from - our informational community has grown. Nevertheless, I don't think the developmental stage of adolescence with identity development has changed, but what influences that development has changed. I think Erikson would agree with me because adolescence is still the time of gaining autonomy and exploring identity. As teachers, I think Erikson would stress the need to understand that the social and emotional development of the adolescent has not changed but that we need to be aware of the broadening of the influencers on adolescents and how this is creating a culture of comparison and competition that enhances stressors that negatively impact adolescent mental health. Parents are also falling into the comparison and competitive culture, adding to the stress of their lives and that of their children. No longer are the "Joneses" next door, but there is now pressure to present the perfect life and to keep up with the "Kardashians."
Comments
Post a Comment