Whatis adolescence? Explain the concept of egocentrism.

Adolescenceis commonly defined as thestage of life that begins at the onset of puberty, when sexualmaturity or the ability toreproduce is attained. It is atransitional period in a person’slife between childhood and adulthood. Itis marked by rapid biological and psychological change in theindividual. It starts at approximately11 to 12 years of age and ends at 18 to 20 years of age.

Theconcept of egocentrism deals with self focus. It is a viewpoint ofthe world that is centred upon the self. It hinders an appreciationof the viewpoint of others. This kind of an attitude develops withina child from his/her childhood stage. However, it differs duringadolescence. The egocentrism in adolescents comprises the followingtwo elements:

• Imaginary audience − It is the adolescent’s belief that others are as preoccupied about them as they are about themselves. They think that people are always noticing them and observing their behaviour, hence, it leads to self-consciousness.

• Personal fable − The adolescents’ sense of uniqueness makes them feel that no one understands them or their feelings.