Research Symposium Program - Individual Details

Importance of Role Models in the Social Development of Teens

Abstract

Human behavior is a core characteristic of our nature. From birth, we observe and imitate others as they shape our development. The most notable figure we observe from adolescence is role models. Depending on the type of role model, it can fundamentally shape their social behavior. For decades, research has uncovered the link between adolescent behavior and role model influence. This study seeks to reveal a different perspective on this interconnection, offering insight into the lesser-known variable of inadequate role models. To do so, a survey was given to high school students aged 15 to 18. Asking participants to identify an inadequate role model in their life, analyze their risk behaviors, and analyze their participation in risk behaviors while scaling the role model they chose from least to most important on a 5-point Likert scale. The raw data was then analyzed, and conclusions were drawn based on their perception of the inadequate role model, how it impacted them, and their behavior. The experiments’ outcomes offer a myriad of applications, especially concerning teenagers. It is extremely advantageous for providing a comprehensive understanding of the outcome of teen perception towards inadequate role models and how that affects resiliency. While also allowing individuals to procure methods to improve relationships between teens and role models as well as increase the importance of prosocial behavior among people of any age. While the culmination of data and results were conclusive within this investigation, research beyond this experiment needs to be performed in order to increase lucidity.

Keywords: Role Model, Social Development, Teens