Identity and Family Relations in Early Adolescence

Abstract

The focus of this paper is on elements of the family system that influence and are influenced by work on identity in early adolescence. The argument is made for the need to study the family from a bidirectional and systems perspective. Yet, studies on both the process of development and the content of adolescent and parental identity lack either approach. A consideration of the interactive and multiplicative effects of each parent-adolescent dyad, the marital relationship, and family rules on identity development of each family member is suggested. Family response to the child's efforts to express individuality is discussed and clarified through the specific case of the reciprocal influences of authority relations and individuation.