In order to be able to think in terms of abstract principles – to consider not just when a particular action or choice is right or wrong, but to act on principle in previously unmet cases – a certain level of intellectual, or cognitive, development is needed. We reach that level during the teen years. Thus teens become able to think about and define their own morals and values, whereas previously, they were likely following (or not following) a set of rules given to them by others. They also become able to see ranges in ethical choices, rather than simple and simplistic black and white extremes.
Questioning adult values and/or the values they've been given is a standard part of development. And teens, as they become more independent, are empowered to try out more actions and choices, and both positive and negative actions and choices—and the response these actions and choices evoke—can help refine their principles. Driving allows them to move around independently and make more of their decisions when parents are not present to provide guidance.
The Surgeon General, among others, has emphasized the importance of teaching teens values, as well as allowing them to make choices and experience the results. "The values and lessons that you teach your teenager will shape the adults that they become," Dr. Richard Carmona said in a set of tips to keep teens safe issued at the end of 2005.
Values and Teen Behavior
There is evidence both to support and to undermine the claim that values influence teens' behavior. the National Institute of Health (NIH) reported in 2003 that the Add Health Survey revealed that "religion reduces the likelihood of adolescents engaging in early sex by shaping their attitudes and beliefs about sexual activity."
On the other hand, teens don't always follow their values when it comes to their behavior. The 2004 biennial study of about 25,000 high school students by the Josephson Institute of Ethics sheds some light on this. The research found that while 98% of the teens said it was important to be a person of good character, 90% said that being a good person is more important than being rich, and 98% and 94% respectively said that in personal relationships first and in business and the workplace second, trust and honesty are essential, their behavior didn't match. The research found that 62% of the same teens said they cheated on a test, 82% said they had lied to a parent about something significant, and 27% had stolen something from a store, all in the last 12 months.
The Institute postulates that this discrepancy is explained by cynicism. Teen belief that immoral behavior – lying and cheating, for example – is necessary to succeed, and that success means doing what it takes, whatever that is suggest that teen values are built around success, not a moral standard.
Teen Development of Morals and Values Sources
- unl.edu/ianr/fcs/upsdowns/upsdec98.htm
- surgeongeneral.gov/pressreleases/sg12302005.html
- nichd.nih.gov/new/releases/religious_views.cfm
- josephsoninstitute.org/Survey2004/2004reportcard_pressrelease.htm
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