Pesents a dynamic 4-stage model of adolescent growth that helps parents predict many of the common developmental changes that will unfold. Early Adolescence (ages 9 13.) The function of the first adolescent stage is to accomplish the separation from childhood. The parenting challenge during this stage is to absorb the childs negative response to giving up the comforts of childish ways and to enduring parental restriction of personal freedom, without taking these injured feelings personally or reacting negatively in return. Mid Adolescence (ages 13 15.) The function of the second stage of adolescence is to establish an independent family of peers. The parenting challenge during this stage is to provide loyal opposition to the young persons push for more social freedom with friends when it appears unwise or unsafe, without resorting to coercion or censure to settle disagreements. Late Adolescence (ages 15 18.) The function of the third stage of adolescence is to