Adolescent Identity Development

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Ragelienė (2016) used a systematic literature review to analyze the links between relationships with peers and adolescent identity development. The results seemed to show that good, healthy relationships with peers are positively related to identity development. The quality of relationship adolescents have with each other would have an impact on self-esteem which in turn affects identity. According to Ragelienė (2016), good relationships are characterized by, "mutual cooperation, negotiation, and mutual understanding." (p. 102). Social interaction with peer groups in a supportive environment where things can be freely discussed fosters a more positive self-concept in adolescents.
In class, we discussed that finding our identity is important for multiple future endeavors such as forming romantic relationships as well as friendships and maturation in general. In finding our identity we are able to define who we are and examine our interpersonal self. Identity helps shape our morals, beliefs and essentially gives us direction. Healthy social interaction and communication within peer groups are necessary for forming this identity. One of the ways I chose to identify myself was through Christianity. In high school, I met many people who didn't share the same religious belief as I did. Many of my friends were of varying religions and some
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According to Ragelienė (2016), further research is needed to be done on investigating the links between adolescent identity and peer relationships. Although in essence it can be concluded that fostering healthy relationships is not only important for identity development, it can help with the interpersonal examination of one's self, adapting to different environments and the greater psychological well-being of an adolescent. Due to the fact that humans are social creatures interaction is key in forming the identity of

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