The chapter first introduces the concept of emerging adulthood as a period of life that is characterized by instabilities and fluctuations. Then, the role of goal setting and aspirations in individual development during this stage of life is discussed. Following this, seven chapters of the present special issue are introduced, and the ways in…

Reviews the period of adolescence in relation to religion, religion and society, and the impact of others on adolescent religious beliefs. Provides recommendations for adults who wish to aid the adolescent regarding religion. (Author/RK)

Research indicates that families that adopt have many problems that would have existed even if the adopted child had been a biological member of the family, but that become more complex and intense due to adoption. A psychosocial and psychodynamic perspective toward family life suggests that in the adoption process, child and family pass through…

Twelve essential components of a plan for middle school development. (Author)

One of a series, this guide was produced for parents who want to become involved in their children's education and is designed to help them understand and encourage adolescents' growth and development. Section I offers an overview of adolescence. Section II discusses aspects of self-esteem, qualities of relationships affecting self-esteem, and…

What do solitude experiences offer in this increasingly high-speed, technically dependent world? As this book inspiringly reveals, solo quests can provide powerful reconnection with the natural world, the true self, and the great mystery beyond. As Parker Palmer writes in "To Know as We Are Known," "Solitude calls us to confront…

Topics related to characteristics of mother/daughter relationships in contemporary patriarchal societies are discussed in this seminar paper. The first section describes cases intended to illustrate ways patriarchal social structures limit contemporary mother/daughter relationships, provides a brief historical contrast, and suggests possible…

This document presents materials and guidelines for evaluating Colorado high school students' attainment of the eight state standards for consumer and family studies that pertain to teen challenges and choices. The materials presented are designed to promote and evaluate students' mastery of the following competencies: (1) examine and demonstrate…

Designed to serve as a model and resource for teachers setting up family life education programs at the secondary level, this family life education curriculum guide presents a specific ten-session model for programs at both the high school and junior high school levels. While both programs attempt to provide a broad overview of the areas commonly…