PSYC FPX 3210 assessment 3

Abstract

This study explores the theoretical concept of identity within the framework of Erickson’s psychosocial development stage for Kyla’s age group. Kyla is the second oldest among four children residing with her father and mother and grandparents, demonstrating responsibility and helpfulness. While being very close to her mother, there is a conflictful relationship between Kyla and her father. She has a strong interest in food studies, looking forward to culinary school, and an unfavorable disposition towards conventional academics. This paper investigates the manner in which Kyla’s family dynamics, social media exposure, and personality affect her psychosocial development, with particular focus on self-concept and decision-making. By examining Kyla’s self-reporting attitudes and behaviors, the study aims to understand the various determinants of the psychosocial development of an individual.

Keywords:

psychosocial development, Erickson’s stages of development, identity, idealism, decision-making, self-esteem, family, community, society, adolescent development.

Process of Identity Formation Using the Erickson Psychosocial Development

Erickson states that adolescents undergo a process of identity formation in which they experiment with various roles, values, and beliefs in order to establish a consistent sense of self. Kyla is currently in the process of undergoing Erickson’s fifth stage of psychosocial development—identity versus role confusion. This phase challenges individuals to develop a self-concept and determine where they stand in the world (Gross, 2020). Despite societal demands for traditional academic aspirations, Kyla’s passion for a career in culinary arts shows that she is moving away from her sense of identity. The validation pursued through popularity on social media is an external search for acceptance. In addition, her differing relationships with her parents are a demonstration of efforts to establish herself independent of familial expectations. Her resistance to traditional academia is also evidence of this process. Kyla is going through healthy psychosocial development, engaging in the questioning of roles and interests necessary for this phase of growth. It is essential that she continue to explore what her values and beliefs are as well as receiving guidance and support throughout this phase of development.

Brain Development

Teen cognitive development like Kyla’s is complex and influenced by genetic, environmental, and experiential factors. Brain alterations happen especially in the components of the brain that govern decision-making, impulse control, and emotion regulation during adolescence. The maturation of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex is essential in judgment, the regulation of emotion, and in controlling impulses that are the greatest characteristics of adolescents’ cognitive growth. The formation of the reward circuit of the brain, by the release of dopamine, gets behavior conditioned and reaches its pinnacle during adolescence and makes them pleasurable-sensitive and sensitive to online social media appearance (Clements et al., 2022).

PSYC FPX 3210 Assessment 3 Meet the Washingtons Case Study

Furthermore, the limbic system, which is responsible for emotion regulation, continues to develop during this period (Frere et al., 2020). These factors account for Kyla’s potential inability to regulate emotions and susceptibility to environmental influence. Brain development in Kyla will be determined by a combination of genetic, environmental, and experiential factors. Brain development continues, with complete maturity occurring in early adulthood.

Ethical Considerations

In conducting assessments or interventions, psychologists must obtain informed consent from Kyla and her parents to ensure understanding and agreement to participate. Confidentiality must be exercised to safeguard the privacy of Kyla. Aversion of conflict of interest is necessary to ensure interventions are in the best interests of Kyla and are free from personal biases. Psychologists must promote evidence-based and situation-appropriate interventions, as guided by the APA code of ethics, with emphasis on beneficence, non-maleficence, respect for rights and dignity, and responsibility to promote social justice.

Conclusion

The example of Kyla Washington highlights the complexity of psychosocial development in adolescence. Based on Erickson’s theory of stages and identity of psychosocial development, this paper has made it clear how social media impact, family, and interests influence Kyla’s decision-making and self-image. Further, the description of Kyla’s brain development identifies the significant changes occurring in adolescence and influencing her behavior. Due to the realization of the ongoing process of brain and psychological development, ethical considerations gain priority while working with adolescents like Kyla.

PSYC FPX 3210 Assessment 3 Meet the Washingtons Case Study

Gross, Y. (2020). Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development. The Wiley Encyclopedia of Personality and Individual Differences, 1, 179–184. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118970843.ch3