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A stress and coping approach to adolescent sexual development

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 February 2016

Susan M. Moore
Susan M. Moore*
Affiliation:
Institute for Social Research, Swinburne University of Technology
*
Institute for Social Research, Swinburne University of Technology, Mail No 53, 16 Wakefield Street, Hawthorn, Vic., 3122
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Abstract

In this paper it is argued that the normative biological, social and emotional events and processes of sexual maturation in adolescence can be interpreted as stressors. The nature of these stressors varies in terms of the amount of change required to adjust to the event or process, its unexpectedness, suddenness, negativity and uncontrollableness. Young people's capacity to cope with their sexual development, and the strategies they employ, will depend on the perceived nature of the stressor, the personal characteristics and inner resources of the adolescent, and the level of accessible social support. Personal characteristics discussed include optimism and a positive outlook, hardiness, communication and social skills, restraint/ conscientiousness and sense of control. Environmental supports discussed include family, peers, school, and organised religion.

Type
Theory and Research
Information
Journal of Psychologists and Counsellors in Schools , Volume 9 , Issue S1: Health, Well-being and Coping in Young People , August 1999 , pp. 60 - 74
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1999

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