Kentucky Department of Education

Secondary students (grades 6-12) experience a wide range of emotions as they strive to establish a unique identity through which they filter social and emotional issues. Psychologist Erik Erikson terms this phase, which spans from age 12-19, as Fidelity: Identity vs. Role Confusion. Beginning at age 12, children become concerned with how they appear to others. As they transition from childhood to adulthood, they also examine their values as they compare them to those of others. Erikson also believes that a sense of competence motivates children’s’ behavior and actions. During this critical stage of development, students need guidance from caring adults. Advising students in the various areas of their life, helping them weigh their decisions, and carefully considering their options needs to be a priority.

Advising Toolikt (grades 6 - 12)