Development from Adolescence to Early Adulthood: A Dynamic Systemic Approach to Transitions and Transformations

Traditionally, the subject of adolescent development has been explored using a stage based approach, often with an emphasis on the potential risks and problems of adolescence.

Taking a different approach, in this book the authors draw upon a wealth of research to examine the period of development from adolescence to adulthood from a dynamic systems perspective; investigating multi-facetted, multi-variable explanations surrounding the transitions and consequent transformations that occur in young peoples’ lives, as they change from teenagers to young adults.

The book considers the social institutions, interactions, contexts and relationships that influence each other, and young people, during developmental transitions.

Topics covered include:

• dynamic systems theory in developmental and social psychology
• adolescents in social contexts
• compliments, lies and other social skills
• school, university and labour market transition
• adolescent health in a lifespan context
• family dynamics.

Development from Adolescence to Early Adulthood will be key reading for academics, researchers and postgraduate students in the field of developmental psychology, as well as clinicians and policy makers working with young people.

Marion Kloep is retired from her Professorship of Psychology at the University of Glamorgan, UK.

Leo B. Hendry is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society and Emeritus Professor of Education at the University of Aberdeen, UK.

Rachel Taylor is Principal Lecturer in Social Psychology at the Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, UK.

Ian Stuart-Hamilton is Professor of Developmental Psychology and Head of Research and External Activity at the Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, UK.