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Chapter 7 Middle Childhood: Growth and Development
Figure 7.13 Preteens often confi de in their friends
about worries.
parents, even though the quality
of the advice they receive may be
questionable (Figure 7.13).
The terror of rejection is strong.
Preteens often become very
self-conscious, particularly toward
the end of this period. They feel as if
everyone notices even the smallest
of differences. Riding in the family’s
older car, a new haircut, wearing
clothing of less than the latest fad,
or an overly enthusiastic greeting
from a parent can all cause a child
to feel embarrassment.
Moral Development
Questions about right and
wrong become more of an issue at
this stage. A number of influences
are at work.
Some children are still in Kohlberg’s preconventional stage of morality.
They still base decisions on the possibility of reward or punishment. For
instance, cheating on a test may result in the reward of a higher grade
or punishment of a failing grade. Others have moved to Kohlberg’s
conventional stage of morality. They tend to make moral decisions based
on the desire to have others perceive them as “good” or “bad.” Some
preteens base their decisions on rules or laws. School rules forbid cheating.
“Good” students do not cheat. Unfortunately, some children at this stage
have accepted a label of “bad.” They base their behavior on this label.
At the same time, preadolescents often begin to question some of
their parents’ values. This, if combined with negative peer pressure, can
lead to experimentation with alcohol, drugs, smoking, or sexual behavior.
For a few, crimes such as shoplifting and burglary, may seem like exciting
challenges.
For parents and teachers, this stage can be challenging.
Preadolescents want and need guidance, but they do not always accept it.
Since they are so sensitive to criticism, it can be hard to offer suggestions.
Preteens need to learn to make and live with their own decisions, but
they often tackle ones that they are unequipped to handle alone. They
need more independence, but too much or lack of supervision, can lead
them into serious trouble. The emphasis needs to be on helping children
choose good friends, adopt strong values, and develop the social skills to
withstand negative peer pressure.