Adolescence

The expectations that society has for the teenage age group are constantly and hypocritically conflicting. The fact that some responsibilities are too much and others are understood and demanded from the adolescence causes the confusion that categorizes those subjected to it. It is interesting to consider the perspective of the teenagers themselves versus the authority that controls, or tries to control them. It is unfair to allow some privileges with reasoning that proves the maturity of teens, but then to also restrict and limit other privileges because they are too young and immature. However, this is exactly what parents and adults do in trying to control the actions and behaviors of this misfit group.
It was also interesting to read about the reproduction theory and how parents are not as vital to the formation of a child's behaviors and personality. The first few pages of the article really emphasize the constant push and pull between nature and nurture. There is a constant struggle between parents and peer groups as the frontrunner for child and adolescent development. On the other hand, some argue that genes determine the personality, and there are few outer affects that have an influence over how a child turns out. Lastly, the reproduction theory was interesting because it points out an obvious truth that we sometimes choose to ignore as a society. The inequality that is present socially and economically is reproduced among generations because it is so difficult to overcome the expectations. The example from the reading is devastating because it shows that no matter how much work someone from a tougher neighborhood dedicates, there is no deciding factor that can assure their success.