Adolescent Risk Behavior and Self-Regulation: A Cybernetic Perspective

This book explores the link between juvenile risk behaviors, such as substance abuse and self-harm, and adolescents' developmental tasks. It argues that social pressures from narcissistic self-exploitation, mobility, flexibility, and new media can strain parental figures' mental resources, disrupting the emotional dialogue with their offspring. Neglect and lack of emotional bonding can also lead to risk behaviors in children. The book combines perspectives from psychology, social science, and metatheory and discusses the threat of accelerated social processes and the risks of postmodern society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 127 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate relationship between juvenile risk behaviors, such as substance abuse, nonsuicidal self-injury, and antisocial or suicidal behavior, and the crucial role they play in adolescents' developmental journey. It posits that these behaviors serve as essential tools for adolescents to navigate the complex tasks of identity formation and the regulation of their self-worth. However, this journey is not without its challenges. The book highlights the societal pressures exerted on parental figures, particularly in the age of narcissistic self-exploitation, mobility tasks, flexibility, and the ever-evolving landscape of new media. These pressures not only divert and strain the mental resources of parents but also disrupt and undermine the emotional dialogue they have with their offspring.

Conversely, if children themselves experience neglect and a lack of emotional bonding, it can lead to a deficiency in self-regulating capacities, ultimately resulting in risk behaviors. The book combines diverse perspectives from the psychological, social, and metatheoretical domains, offering a comprehensive exploration of the topic. It is structured into three parts: developmental problems faced by young people, the diagnosis of risk behaviors within a nosological framework, and the presentation of new morbidity with an increase in symptom prevalence. Furthermore, the book delves into the concerning threat of the acceleration of social processes and the risks associated with postmodern society.

Through its insightful analysis and thought-provoking insights, this book provides valuable perspectives on the complex dynamics between juvenile risk behaviors, adolescent development, and the broader societal context. It serves as a valuable resource for parents, educators, and mental health professionals seeking to better understand and address the challenges faced by young people in today's rapidly changing world.

Weight: 221g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030699574
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021