According to Blos, late adolescence is the period when adolescents typically _________.

• A. A Time of Complete Independence
• B. None of These
• C. Predominant Focus on Social Life
• D. Early Physical Growth

Answer: (B)

Blos portrays late adolescence as a time of internal reorganization and identity formation, not simply a change in outward behavior. In this stage, the adolescent is working toward a more solid sense of self, emotionally separating from parents, and preparing to take on adult roles and responsibilities. This focus on psychological autonomy and identity development goes beyond just becoming completely independent, overemphasizing social activities, or pointing to physical growth.

Complete independence is not typically the hallmark of late adolescence, since many youths continue to rely on family support as they finalize their sense of self and life path. A predominant focus on social life doesn’t capture the deeper work of forming a stable identity and mature adult functioning. Early physical growth has already occurred earlier in puberty, so it isn’t characteristic of late adolescence either. None of these describe the core process Blos emphasized, which is the psychosocial reorganization accompanying the move toward adulthood.