Question

Is there any evidence to prove that adolescence is a period of "storm and stress" or not? where can I find the information?

Answer 1

Adolescence is a period in development between the onset of puberty and adulthood. It usually begins between eleven and thirteen years of age, and terminating at eighteen to twenty years of age with the completion of development of the adult form. During this period, the individual undergoes extensive physical, psychological, emotional and personality changes.

The term 'storm and stress' was coined by G. Stanley Hall in ‘Adolescence’, written in 1904. Hall used this term because he viewed “adolescence” as a period of inevitable turmoil that takes place during the transition from childhood to adulthood.
Storm and stress in relation to adolescence can be said to be the challenges faced and dealt with during this process of growth, these stress and storm can be related to the pressure and expectation from society, media and peer’s pressure. Stress is not necessarily caused by this process of growth, but by the demand and responsibility that is usually attached to it.
It is generally believed that most adolescents experience different stages of storm and stress at this period of their lives. It is most likely to manifest in the following ways :

• Conflict with parent :- Most people in this age group tend to be rebellious due to search of freedom and authority.
• Mood disruptions :- Adolescents pass through emotional cycle at this stage; compared to other stages.
• Dodgy behaviours :- such as recklessness, norm breaking and anti-social behaviours are common in this age group.

For example, the rate of crimes reported against the adolescents could be sited as a better evidence for this phenomenon.