| High school is
the final transition into adulthood and the
world of work as students begin separating
from parents and exploring and defining their
independence. Students are deciding who they
are, what they do well, and what they will
do when they graduate. During these adolescent
years, students are evaluating their strengths,
skills and abilities. The largest influence
is their peer group. They are looking for
a place to belong and rely on peer acceptance
and feedback. They face increased pressures
regarding risk behaviors involving sex, alcohol
and drugs while exploring the boundaries
of more acceptable behavior and mature, meaningful
relationships. They need guidance in making
solid and complex decisions. They will
have to deal with academic pressures as they
face high-stakes testing, the challenges
of college admissions, the scholarship and
financial aid application process and entrance
into a competitive job market. |
