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✍️ Q4. Explain social characteristics of adolescence.
[Marks: 16 | Long Answer Format]
(किशोरावस्था की सामाजिक विशेषताओं की व्याख्या कीजिए।)
📌 Introduction:
Adolescence is the period between 12 to 18 years when a child transitions into adulthood. It is a phase of rapid physical, mental, emotional, and social changes.
In this stage, social development plays a very important role because adolescents begin to build their identity, form new relationships, and seek independence from their family.
✅ Major Social Characteristics of Adolescents:
1. Search for Identity:
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Adolescents begin to ask “Who am I?”
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They explore roles, values, careers, and beliefs.
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Erik Erikson called this the stage of Identity vs Role Confusion.
2. Peer Group Importance:
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Friends and peer groups become more important than family.
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Adolescents learn to cooperate, compete, and share ideas.
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They seek acceptance and belonging in their peer circle.
3. Less Dependence on Family:
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Adolescents start demanding independence.
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Desire to make their own choices and decisions.
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May cause conflict with parents or authority figures.
4. Social Maturity:
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Start understanding social responsibilities, such as helping others.
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Learn to follow rules, social norms, and values.
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Develop a sense of justice, fairness, and equality.
5. Interest in Social Issues:
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Adolescents become aware of society, politics, and current events.
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Participate in debates, campaigns, or social activities.
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Want to contribute to change or make a difference.
6. Development of Leadership Qualities:
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Desire to lead groups in school or community.
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Join student unions, clubs, or sports teams.
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Express opinions confidently and influence peers.
7. Emotional Sensitivity in Relationships:
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Begin to form emotional bonds and friendships.
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Sensitive to rejection, criticism, or isolation.
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Start experiencing romantic attractions and complex emotions.
8. Role Conflict and Confusion:
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Face confusion between childhood dependence and adult responsibilities.
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Confused about how to behave – childlike or mature.
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Feel stress and anxiety due to social pressure.
📚 Educational Implications:
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Teachers should create an atmosphere of respect and understanding.
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Schools must encourage group activities, debates, and leadership opportunities.
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Proper counseling should be provided to help adolescents handle social pressures.
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Students must be guided to develop moral values and positive behavior.
🔚 Conclusion:
Adolescents go through a critical period of social transition. Their behavior is influenced strongly by peers, social roles, and the need for identity. A supportive school and home environment can help adolescents become socially mature, responsible, and confident individuals.
✅ Now continuing to Q5: Special problems of Indian adolescents and how to help them in the same detailed manner. Ready to continue?