Parenting style in relation to behavioral problems and adolescent self-esteem

An adolescent may be best described as one who is not alone strange to others but also strange to himself or herself It is because, an adolescent is marked by rapid physical changes, development of secondary sex characteristics, and concomitant psychological changes. The adolescents therefore strive for self-identity due to feelings of uncertainty and role ambiguity as they are neither children nor adults. They strive for recognition and independence and when denied they become rebellious and undergo stress and tension. In addition there is increased competition in school setting and the parental expectations increase with regard to the performance of the adolescents. During such a vulnerable state, adolescents require both support and direction to proceed with confidence to meet the demands from various fronts.