Discuss research (theories and/or studies) into cultural differences in
adolescent behaviour. (24 marks)
Note: You can always write about theories and/or studies. This question can also be a 12 mark (1/2
essay), combined with another adolescence question.
1. Individualist-collectivist dimension
Briefly explain the differences in these type of cultures, and what this means for adolescence. Use some
research to support or qualify your ideas.
2. Variations in experience
You could use: Variations in sexuality (and then use historical variation for AO2); rites of passage in non-
Western cultures (but Western cultures do have events/achievements which can act as rites – AO2); in some
societies, child-adult transition does not involve a period of transition (this challenges the idea that A. is a
psych. stage – AO2); lesbian/gay youth may experience particular difficulties of identity and relationships
(while heterosexual adolescents may turn to their peers for support -instead of their parents- lesbian/gay
adolescents may feel doubly isolated; in collectivist cultures it may be especially difficult, as marriage/child-
bearing is a duty to the family/community – AO2).
3. Sub-cultural differences: immigrant communities
Report some differences – try to include qualifying or contradictory concepts/research findings – AO2.
4. Sub-cultural differences: delinquent sub-cultures &/or different Socio-Economic
Status groups
Why do some teenagers choose to identify with a delinquent sub-group? What roles do these groups play for
the individual? What is reputation management theory?
What values do different SES groups promote? What are the pros and cons of the values of high SES groups?
,
adolescent behaviour. (24 marks)
Note: You can always write about theories and/or studies. This question can also be a 12 mark (1/2
essay), combined with another adolescence question.
1. Individualist-collectivist dimension
Briefly explain the differences in these type of cultures, and what this means for adolescence. Use some
research to support or qualify your ideas.
2. Variations in experience
You could use: Variations in sexuality (and then use historical variation for AO2); rites of passage in non-
Western cultures (but Western cultures do have events/achievements which can act as rites – AO2); in some
societies, child-adult transition does not involve a period of transition (this challenges the idea that A. is a
psych. stage – AO2); lesbian/gay youth may experience particular difficulties of identity and relationships
(while heterosexual adolescents may turn to their peers for support -instead of their parents- lesbian/gay
adolescents may feel doubly isolated; in collectivist cultures it may be especially difficult, as marriage/child-
bearing is a duty to the family/community – AO2).
3. Sub-cultural differences: immigrant communities
Report some differences – try to include qualifying or contradictory concepts/research findings – AO2.
4. Sub-cultural differences: delinquent sub-cultures &/or different Socio-Economic
Status groups
Why do some teenagers choose to identify with a delinquent sub-group? What roles do these groups play for
the individual? What is reputation management theory?
What values do different SES groups promote? What are the pros and cons of the values of high SES groups?
,
