When planning care for a 15-year-old girl, which developmental task of adolescence should the nurse prioritize?

In the context of a 15-year-old girl, prioritizing the ability to form a sense of identity aligns closely with the primary developmental tasks of adolescence. This stage is a critical period for adolescents as they undergo significant changes physically, emotionally, and socially. The formation of identity involves exploring different roles, beliefs, and values, which is essential for developing a strong self-concept.

During this phase, teenagers often experiment with various aspects of their identity including their interests, personal style, and social groups. Successful navigation of this developmental task fosters confidence and helps adolescents establish a clear sense of self, which lays the groundwork for future relationships and decision-making.

While creating intimate relationships, separating from parents, and achieving positive self-esteem are also important tasks during adolescence, they often build upon the foundation of a well-formed identity. Without a strong sense of self, developing intimate relationships or achieving independence may be more challenging for the adolescent. Therefore, focusing on identity formation is paramount in holistic care planning for a teenager.