eiseEducation

Development in adolescence is increasingly being shown to occur across a sensitive period—a time-period of crucial experience-expectant growth. This important time can also be differentiated between an early and later adolescence, approximately reflecting sexual maturation and growth in socio-emotionality respectively. Attachment(s) experiences shifts significantly across both periods. First, a global attachment style emerges for the first time. Peer attachments—including both friends and romantic partners—emerge as one’s attachment network expands. Finally, ongoing attachment with parents and key caregivers continue to influence adolescent developmental outcomes. Attachment research is demonstrating interesting new insights for mental health.

After exploring this important theoretical terrain, the webinar will look at specific clinical challenges that professionals may face when working with an adolescent cohort. Two case studies will be engaged: one looking at early adolescence, the second considering later adolescence. Self-esteem, peer competence, risk taking are a few of the important outcomes where attachment demonstrates important influence. Finally, innovative therapeutic assessment and treatment options are continuing to evolve. The webinar therefore offers practitioners an opportunity to build and refresh their skills for working with adolescent attachment.