International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue XI, November 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

Elements of Adjustment Process in Adolescents: Suggestions for Counselling

Ifeanyi Mathew Azuji, Uju Christiana Nwanna

Department of Guidance and Counselling, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract: The issue of adjustment has been a major challenge to adolescents, especially those in the secondary schools. This paper highlighted some of the major challenges of the adolescents with regard to the elements that constitute their adjustment problems, issues associated with the adolescent’s adjustment process and the necessary fundamentals to their adjustment process. Based on these, the researcher made suggestions for counselling.

Paper Focus: Adolescents, elements of adjustments, counselling, suggestions

I.INTRODUCTION

The problems that tend to be part of adolescence have often been emphasized as somewhat an issue of concern to many, including the family, the school and the society at large. Globally, gang violence, bloody fights in school, alcohol related accidents, drug abuse, and in some extreme cases, suicide involving adolescents are all too frequently reflected in news headline and movie plots. In some research too, such as Arnett (2004), adolescents are frequently portrayed as a negative stage of life, a period of storm and stress to be survived or endured.
Adolescence is an important time for establishing the social position of individuals. During this time, young people are exposed to a wide range of new social situations, such as parties, bars and concerts. As a result, young people tend to come into contact, not only with friends, but also with strangers, compelling them to learn and develop new social roles without the supervision of their parents. WHO (2012) defined adolescence as transitional stage of physical and mental human development generally occurring between puberty and legal adulthood, but largely characterized as beginning and ending with teenage stage. Moreover, according to Erikson’s stage of human development, an adolescent is a person between the ages of 13 and 19. During this period peer relationships play a critical role in the development of social skills and the feelings that are essential for personal growth and adjustment (Hahn & Payne, 2001). The possession of social skills such as effective communication can lead to a more positive social self-image and may determine the degree to which adolescents are able to succeed in their peer group (Klingman, 1992).