Week 10 post 1

While reading chapter 16 this week it allowed me to reflect on my teenage years and discovering myself and creating friendships. Learning about ourselves and figuring out who we are is very important. When teens are in the process of discovering or learning about themselves peers can have an impact them greatly; such as sex or looks or dating etc. Also getting involved in other behaviors such as drugs can impact an individual which can be reflected back on to how one was taught or brought up. Not only does the past play a part in one’s life but peers around them. I remember when I was in high school some individuals would talk about parties or having sex over the weekend and how they are having so much fun but in reality do they know that will affect them in the future. The part of learning is making mistakes but doing something that others are forcing or influencing one to do which can led to emotional problems will create a harder time to develop relationships with others. When discovering your personality one may go through ups and downs such as trying to fit in with everyone else or rebelling against parents’ wishes. As one goes through that process depression or suicidal thoughts could develop since one may be upset or frustrated. Our texts states that the average age for suicide is around the age 15; that is too young for one to end their life which could lead others to follow which is not good. Allowing others to be involved in activities and developing relationships with friends can help prevent from that happening, also having family supporting the individual through the discovery process.