| Characteristics |
Implications for Volunteers |
| Physical |
| Most have
overcome the awkwardness of puberty, but some boys are still growing at a fast pace. Many
are concerned with body image. |
Avoid comments
that criticize or compare stature, size, or shape. |
Social |
| Strong desire
for status in their peer group. |
Establish a
climate that is conducive to peer support. |
| Interested in
coeducational activities. Dating increases. |
Allow teens to
plan coeducational and group oriented projects or activities. |
| Often want
adult leadership roles. |
Provide
opportunities for teens to plan their own programs. |
| Want to belong
to a group, but also want to be recognized as unique individuals. |
Place emphasis
on personal development whenever possible. |
Intellectual |
| Reach high
levels of abstract thinking and problem solving. |
Put youth into
real life problem-solving situations. Allow them to fully discover ideas, make decisions,
and evaluate outcomes. |
| Developing
community consciousness and concern for the well-being of others. |
Encourage
civic projects that are a service to others. |
| Increasing
self-knowledge; personal philosophy begins to emerge. |
Allow time and
plan activities for youth to explore and express their own philosophies. |
| Need life
planning guidance as they are beginning to think about leaving home for college,
employment, etc. |
College
visits, field trips to businesses, and conversations with college students or working
adults can be helpful activities. |
| Emotional |
| Feelings of
inferiority and inadequacy are common. |
Encourage
youth by helping them to see their positive self-worth. |
| Gaining
independence and developing firm individual identity. |
Give teens
responsibility and expect them to follow through. Provide opportunities that help teens
explore their identity, values, and beliefs. |
