A parent who is worrying over her teenager’s dangerous and self-destructive behavior and low selfesteem may wish to look at her child’s:

Parenting a teenager can be a challenging task, especially when faced with dangerous and self-destructive behavior coupled with low self-esteem. It’s crucial for parents to delve deeper into the underlying causes of these issues.

One effective approach is to examine the teenager’s social environment. This includes understanding their reference group, in-group, and out-group.

Correct Answer Explanation:

The correct answer is (d) All of the above, as all these elements play significant roles in shaping a teenager’s behavior and self-perception.

a. Reference Group:

A reference group refers to the social groups that a person uses as a point of reference in the formation of attitudes, values, and behaviors. In the context of a teenager, this could include friends, classmates, or even online communities.

If a parent observes that their child’s reference group exhibits risky behaviors or low self-esteem, it may indicate that the child is influenced by these negative tendencies. Understanding the reference group allows a parent to take appropriate action, such as encouraging positive friendships or seeking professional help if necessary.

b. In-Group:

An in-group refers to a social group to which an individual feels they belong. This can be a group of friends, a sports team, or a club.

If a teenager’s in-group exhibits self-destructive behavior or has low self-esteem, it can have a profound impact on the teenager’s own behavior and self-perception. Parents need to be aware of their child’s in-group dynamics and, if necessary, guide them towards healthier social circles.

c. Out-Group:

An out-group is a social group to which an individual does not perceive themselves as belonging. Sometimes, a teenager might define themselves in opposition to certain groups, distancing themselves from behaviors or beliefs they find undesirable.

Understanding the out-group dynamic can give parents insights into their child’s values and preferences, helping them identify potential sources of negative influence.

By considering all of these aspects—reference group, in-group, and out-group—a parent gains a comprehensive view of their teenager’s social environment. This understanding is crucial for identifying the sources of negative behavior and low self-esteem, and for implementing strategies to foster positive change.

Examining Incorrect Options

a. Reference Group:

While a reference group is indeed crucial in understanding a teenager’s behavior, it alone does not provide a complete picture. Focusing solely on the reference group might overlook other significant influences in the teenager’s life.