• I am egocentric. My sense of identity is important to me as I am developing my unique personality.
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• Due to hormonal changes, I may be moody, sarcastic, experience outbursts, and overreact at times. My behaviors can be impulsive. I will test and question authority.
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• My peers are most important in my life. I need to feel a part of my social group. Although I may push adults away, I want and need them to be there for me.
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• I can become overly critical of myself, which can produce feelings of poor self-esteem and self-doubt. I may demonstrate narcissism to cover up for my insecurities. I have the feeling that everyone is watching me. I do not want to be embarrassed and look inferior to my peers. Because of this, I may shy away from new activities and things I do not understand.
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• I am aware of peer pressures. My peers may try to encourage me to engage in self-destructive behaviors, such as using harmful substances. I can be influenced by gender roles and stereotypes that I see in visual culture. I am more likely to seek thrills.
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• I am interested in moral issues such as fairness and justice. Despite my beliefs, I may sometimes treat others outside of my group unfairly. I benefit from caring adults who remind me to demonstrate fairness and equity.

• See Milestones in Early Adolescent Development for more information.

Magdalena Kaštylová (13 years), Czech Republic. ICEFA Lidice, 33rd Exhibition