Sociology of Adolescence

Prerequisite: SOCI 102 and SOCI 300; or consent of instructor This course provides a critical examination of adolescence in North American societies, focusing on the causes and consequences of the lengthened period in which the transition to adulthood occurs. It provides a brief history of adolescence research identifying a select set of topics, themes and research problems that guide current research on adolescence and youth. These themes include, but are not limited to, peer group relations, biological influences on adolescence, employment experiences, increased autonomy, racial and gender differences, youth culture, dating patterns, family and education. Special emphasis will be placed on the relationship of adolescents' social roles to processes of social change and stability. Offered spring semester.