Your 14-Year-Old Daughter Accidentally Leaves Her Purse Open

Your 14 Years Daughter Accidently Leaves Her Purse Open In The Family

Your 14 years daughter accidently leaves her purse open in the family room and you see a package of birth control pills. Q1 Brief contribution to the description and definition of the condition. Q2 Discuss at least one major theoretical approach to explaining and resolving the life span development situation (i. e., mental or developmental disorder, psychosocial change or trauma, or a moral dilemma). Q3Any additional information relevant to the topic for informational purposes (i.e., brief video clip, brochure, classroom demonstration) may be included. (Causes, effects, how to control)

Paper For Above instruction

The accidental discovery of a package of birth control pills by a parent in a teenage daughter's purse can evoke a range of emotional, psychological, and social responses. This situation is embedded in complex developmental, biological, and psychosocial dynamics that merit careful analysis. To understand the implications, it is essential first to define the condition or situation, explore relevant theoretical frameworks, and consider broader informational contexts.

Understanding the Situation: Description and Definition

The situation involves an adolescent girl, aged 14, whose personal belongings—specifically her purse—contain contraceptive pills. The discovery of such medication signifies she may be sexually active or contemplating sexual activity. Birth control pills are a form of hormonal contraception designed to prevent pregnancy, typically used by females of reproductive age. Their presence in a teenage girl indicates a level of sexual awareness or activity, potentially accompanied by existing or developing sexual health concerns. From a developmental psychology perspective, this scenario highlights a critical junction of adolescent development, as young individuals navigate sexuality, autonomy, and increasing independence. It also raises concerns about communication, education, and parental monitoring, especially if the adolescent’s behaviors and intentions are not openly discussed or understood.

Theoretical Approach to Explaining and Resolving the Situation

One major theoretical framework applicable to this scenario is Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory, particularly the stage of "Identity vs. Role Confusion" that adolescents experience (Erikson, 1968). During this period, teenagers explore personal identity, including their sexual identity, autonomy, and values. The discovery of birth control pills can be viewed as a manifestation of this developmental task—an expression of growing independence and responsibility concerning sexuality.

Applying Erikson’s theory, resolving this situation involves fostering open communication and supportive parenting strategies. Parents can approach the matter with understanding and without immediate judgment, facilitating a discussion that encourages the adolescent to express her feelings and questions about sexuality, relationships, and health. This approach helps reinforce trust and supports healthy identity development (Geldard & Geldard, 2018). Encouraging the adolescent to seek medical advice and providing age-appropriate sexual education can further assist her in making informed decisions. Addressing the issue in a non-confrontational manner aligns with the psychosocial needs of adolescents seeking independence while still requiring guidance and boundaries (Miller et al., 2017).

Other theories, such as Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, contextualize the situation within larger societal and familial systems, emphasizing the importance of the family environment, peer influences, and media exposure in shaping adolescent behavior (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). Interventions or educational programs targeting these external influences can promote safer attitudes toward sexuality and better communication within families.

Additional Information for Informational Purposes

Understanding the causes, effects, and management strategies related to adolescent sexuality and contraception use is essential for parents, educators, and healthcare providers. Causes of teenage contraceptive use include a desire for sexual activity, peer pressure, and a lack of comprehensive sex education (Kong et al., 2020). The effects of early or unprotected sexual activity can include unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and emotional or psychological distress (World Health Organization, 2019).

Effective control and prevention strategies involve comprehensive sex education, accessible reproductive health services, and open parent-child communication. Educational brochures and resources from reputable health organizations like the CDC or WHO provide age-appropriate information and promote responsible decision-making (CDC, 2022). For example, a classroom demonstration on safe sex practices and contraceptive methods can empower teenagers to make informed choices and understand their health risks and responsibilities.

In sum, the situation of a teenage girl leaving contraceptive pills in her purse is not merely an insular incident but a reflection of ongoing developmental processes. Addressing it requires understanding the adolescent’s psychological and social context, employing appropriate theoretical frameworks to guide intervention, and fostering an environment that encourages safe, informed, and autonomous decision-making regarding sexuality.

References

• Bronfenbrenner, U. (1979). The ecology of human development: Experiments by nature and design. Harvard University Press.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Adolescent sexual health. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/sexualbehaviors/index.htm
• Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and crisis. Norton & Company.
• Geldard, K., & Geldard, D. (2018). Counselling adolescents: The proactive approach. SAGE Publications.
• Kong, F., et al. (2020). Factors influencing adolescent contraceptive use: A systematic review. Journal of Adolescence, 81, 55–66.
• Miller, W. R., et al. (2017). Treating addiction: A comprehensive guide. SAGE Publications.
• World Health Organization. (2019). Sexual health and responsible sexual behavior. https://www.who.int/health-topics/sexual-and-reproductive-health

Note:

This paper integrates the developmental theory with practical considerations surrounding adolescent sexuality, providing a comprehensive understanding suitable for educational, parental, and healthcare contexts.