Self-assertion involves an individual's search for and realization of his own special path in the world, his values and purpose in life in every given moment. It is a process that accompanies a person throughout his life. Self-assertion becomes exceptionally important in adolescence as it marks a turning point in one's attitude toward oneself; one is now able and wants to understand oneself as a personality, one discovers one's own nature and uniqueness. Self-assertion takes place in a number of phases during adolescence. Self-awareness gives rise to self-assessment, and self-assessment makes it possible to see oneself in the center of the universe, in society, and in the collective. What makes adolescence complicated is that the process of self-assertion can take on a destructive as well as a constructive character. Adolescence is considered to be the most difficult period in regard to school instruction and upbringing. This article discusses how the problems of adolescence that can be a source of maladaptation can be harnessed to educational goals.