Developmental Psychology

7.9 Vocational Choices It has been said that in recent years, that choosing a vocation has been very difficult. More and more choices are available to adolescents, and each one has specific skill sets that are required. Jobs are also becoming more and more specialized, and schools are trying to become more accommodating to help teach these skill sets to students. One of the differences of schools teaching skill sets and the schools that done, makes it harder for students to become prepared for the workforce if they have not received instruction in skill sets for careers. Social class in recent years has become one of the important roles when choosing vocations. Adolescents who come from higher social classes will typically choose careers in business, or work in a professional office, etc. Adolescents who are on the lower side of the socioeconomic status may not have higher aspirations to become a professional in an office or in a business. They may end up in service work such as a fast food or a restaurant, sometimes trade occupations is an option. 7.10 Concerns and Conflicts of Adolescence Just like in previous stages of development, there will conflicts that may arise during this stage. Here are just a few of the concerns and conflicts that may arise during adolescence. • School Dropouts o Most jobs require some kind of education. Whether it is a high school diploma or a GED, perhaps a college education is necessary. This can cause an issue if a person drops out of school o Those who drop out are usually from the lower socioeconomic families o There is a higher chance of delinquency, criminal behavior, and drug/alcohol addiction if individuals drop out of school. • Juvenile Delinquency o Individuals in their 20s, are more than likely to be arrested than in any other decade of their life. o Reaching out to those who are more than likely to become a delinquent is important, so it may deter the individuals thinking about committing crimes, this type of preventative measure may not always work. o The chance of achieving positive things in the future may be affected if there is an early onset of delinquent behavior • Suicide o Adolescents thoughts of suicide have been increasing throughout the years o Females on a worldwide scale are more likely to attempt suicide, and males are more likely to complete a suicide attempt o One of the leading causes of suicide is significant, negative events that occur o Some of the signs and symptoms of suicide are  The giving away of personal possessions  Stop being around friends, family, and school  Talk about suicide and plans often  SUDDEN mood changes, meaning that a decision has been made o Recognizing signs and symptoms may help someone

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