Chapter 11: Problem 6

Describe how adolescent egocentrism affects thinking and behavior.

Short Answer

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Adolescent egocentrism is a stage where teenagers believe they are the focus of everyone's attention, which affects their thinking and behavior. The two main components of this are the imaginary audience and the personal fable. The imaginary audience leads to self-consciousness and changes in behavior to meet perceived expectations. The personal fable leads to a sense of uniqueness and invulnerability, affecting decision-making and risk-taking behaviors. This egocentrism tends to decrease as the adolescent matures and develops a more realistic perspective.

Step by step solution

Define Adolescent Egocentrism

Adolescent egocentrism is a stage of self-absorption that adolescents go through, where they believe that they are the main focus of everyone else's attention. This occurs because they are self-conscious and constantly comparing themselves to others. It involves two main components: the imaginary audience and the personal fable.

Explain the imaginary audience

The imaginary audience refers to the adolescent's belief that others are constantly watching and judging them. Because of this belief, they may change their behavior, their appearance, or even their attitudes in order to fit perceived expectations.

Discuss the personal fable

The personal fable is another key concept in adolescent egocentrism. Adolescents believe that they are special and unique, to the point that no one else can understand their experiences. This feeling of invulnerability leads them to take risks and can impact their decision-making process.

Analyze the effects on thinking and behavior

Adolescent egocentrism affects thinking and behavior significantly. Teens may be overly concerned about their image and may go through lengths to maintain certain appearances. They may also take risks, believing they are immune to consequences. This egocentrism gradually diminishes as they mature and gain more realistic perspectives about themselves and others.

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Describe how adolescent egocentrism affects thinking and behavior.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Adolescent Egocentrism

Explain the imaginary audience

Discuss the personal fable

Analyze the effects on thinking and behavior

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