A nurse is assessing the psychosocial development of a 16-year-old adolescent. What behavior would be considered a normal developmental milestone for this age?
A.
Forming intimate relationships.
B.
Demonstrating egocentrism.
C.
Engaging in parallel play.
D.
Demonstrating stranger anxiety.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. Demonstrating egocentrism.
Explanation:
During adolescence, typically between the ages of 12 and 18, individuals undergo significant psychosocial development, a period characterized by various emotional, social, and cognitive changes. The behaviors observed in this stage reflect the developmental milestones of this age group.
A. Forming intimate relationships: While forming intimate relationships becomes increasingly important during adolescence, the ability to maintain deep, lasting romantic relationships is often more developed in older adolescents or young adults. At age 16, adolescents may experience crushes or short-term relationships, but more profound, committed intimate relationships typically evolve later as individuals mature emotionally and socially.
B. Demonstrating egocentrism: This behavior is a normal developmental milestone for a 16-year-old. Egocentrism in adolescence, as described by developmental psychologist Jean Piaget, manifests as a heightened self-focus and an inability to fully recognize the perspectives of others. This egocentrism is exemplified by phenomena such as the “imaginary audience” (where adolescents believe others are constantly observing and judging them) and the “personal fable” (the belief that their experiences and feelings are unique and not shared by others). Such behaviors are part of normal cognitive development during adolescence and reflect the ongoing development of self-identity and social understanding.
C. Engaging in parallel play: Parallel play is a behavior typical of toddlers, where children play alongside each other but do not interact directly. By the age of 16, adolescents have typically moved beyond parallel play and engage in more complex forms of social interaction, including cooperative play and group activities.
D. Demonstrating stranger anxiety: Stranger anxiety is common in infants and young children, usually peaking between 6 and 12 months of age. By the time individuals reach adolescence, stranger anxiety is no longer a typical developmental milestone. Instead, adolescents are generally more focused on their peer relationships and personal identity.
Thus, demonstrating egocentrism is the behavior that aligns with the developmental stage of a 16-year-old adolescent, reflecting the ongoing maturation of cognitive and psychosocial abilities.