The Series Institute outlines numerous internal and external assets that a healthy middle school age child (8-12 years) and teenager (12-18 years) should exhibit. At first glance it would seem incomprehensible that anyone could display all of these traits, nonetheless teenagers who normally have raging hormones and selfish attitudes. According to Lerner though, “Research shows that most young people go through adolescence having good relationships with their parents, adopting attitudes and values consistent with their parents’ and end up getting out of the adolescent period and becoming good citizens” (A Peaceful Adolescence). Much of this outcome depends on the support given by parents during these developmental times. Parents may not think that they have any influence over their children but they are mistaken. Children and early teens are constantly watching how their parents react to situations and function within society in order to learn how to deal with the problems they face. The Series Institute also agrees that parental support is crucial because many of the attributes they recommend for a healthy middle aged child focus on parental support such as parents should tell children it is important to tell the truth (Development Assets for Middle Childhood). This line of reasoning makes sense because children in their early years (8-12) need guidance about what is right and wrong and how they should interact with the world. They are starting to gain more relationships outside of their family and are facing difficult issues such as peer pressure and drug use. At this younger age they are more receptive to their parents and therefore parents need to provide guidance so that as their child grows older they have the tools they need in order to make the right decision when faced with hard issues.
A Peaceful Adolescence
Developmental Assets for Middle Childhood
Developmental Assets for Adolescents
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