Autonomy and Adolescence: A Concept Analysis

Abstract

During the developmental stage of adolescence, young people strive for independence and begin to make decisions that impact them for the rest of their lives. The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine the literature over the past 15 years to analyze the concept of autonomy in adolescence and to identify possible relationships between autonomy and health behavior. The findings indicate that few studies have been carried out that address the issue of autonomy as it relates to adolescent lifestyles or "ways of living," particularly related to health behaviors. Additional study is warranted to develop more defined theoretical and operational definitions of the concept of autonomy, which will be of value for the development of instruments for measurement and continued research. Furthermore, understanding the antecedents and consequences of adolescent autonomy will facilitate the development of more appropriate health-promoting interventions based on developmental needs.

UPPS-P model impulsivity and marijuana use behaviors in adolescents: A meta-analysis

“…Although many researchers agree that adolescence is a period of healthy experimentation, including drug use (Baker and Yardley, 2002), that is beneficial as it reflects a pattern of behavior shifting from parental control and towards autonomy (Laird et al, 2009;Loeber et al, 2000;Spear and Kulbok, 2004), problems arise when adolescents have an exaggerated inclination towards risk-taking, leading to more negative outcomes (Castellonos-Ryan et al, 2013;Stautz and Cooper, 2013). Thus, it is important to understand risk factors associated with marijuana use and negative marijuana-related consequences in order to more effectively identify and intervene on adolescents who are at greatest risk for such outcomes.…”

Role of parental autonomy support on self-determination in influencing diet and exercise motivation in older adolescents

“…[1][2][3] Despite the drastic rise in adolescent obesity and the premature onset of many obesity-related chronic conditions, in comparison with other developmental stages, adolescence has traditionally been viewed as a time of few health concerns. 4,5 In fact, adolescents are more concerned about health-related issues than is recognized by most adults. Furthermore, their concerns about health are broader than those considered by adults and are not limited to those related to chronic illness.…”

The Experiences of Medically Fragile Adolescents Who Require Respiratory Assistance

“…In the developmental stage of adolescence, youth strive for independence and begin to make decisions that impact their future (Spear & Kulbok, 2004). Freud (1969) said that from adolescence onward the individual"s great task is freedom or independence from parents.…”

“…They also felt that they would be able to continue to care for themselves independently in the future. These adolescents were striving for independence and making decisions for the future, typical of adolescence (Spear & Kulbok, 2004).…”