Emotional Development During Adolescence

Clinical psychologist Dr. David Steinbok has practiced in Boca Raton, Florida, since 2011. Certified in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Dr. David Steinbok delivers group, couples, and individual therapy for adults and older adolescents.

Adolescence begins at 10 or 11 years of age, when children enter the formal operational stage of cognitive thinking, and lasts for up to ten years. The emerging ability to think abstractly combined with the hormonal and physical impact of puberty can make adolescence an emotionally turbulent time.

During this period, young people are differentiating themselves from their parents and developing a sense of identity. This process may be heavily influenced by their peer group. Adolescents may grapple with emotional-self regulation and react strongly to positive or negative experiences.

Acceptance among their peers is essential to an adolescent’s emotional health. Rejection can contribute to serious mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. While some emotional volatility is normal, adolescents who exhibit severe mood swings or engage in dangerous or risky behaviors may benefit from therapy.