Cultural Influences on Growth and Development
Although the adolescent's culture continues to influence him or her, the desire to be in harmony with peers becomes paramount. That desire can cause conflict with the adolescent's family and culture. Today's adolescents live in a rapidly changing, increasingly culturally diverse world. They are exposed to many different cultures and ethnic groups. In 2007, over 40% of children and adolescent in the United States were minorities (Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics, 2008).