Special education for the behaviorally disordered is characterized as at an adolescent stage of development. Seven characteristics of adolescence are discussed as they apply to special education: (a) overestimation of abilities and importance, (b) underestimation of needs, (c) misinterpretation of parents “withitness”. (d) lack of tolerance for ambiguity, (e) uncertain identity, (f) residual belief in magic and regret about loss of innocence, and (g) impulsivity and the desire for immediate gratification. Professional growth and maturity related to each of these characteristics is discussed.
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