Psychologists and educators believe that the primary task of adolescence is forming one's identity. Even if teens don't know the whole answer to the question of who they are, perhaps they will have a better understanding of all the things that might make up that answer and feel more comfortable becoming who they will be with the information and guidance this book offers. The authors describe a huge range of aspects many people think of as key to their identity: the role of family, culture and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, body modifications (tattoos, piercings, brandings, plastic surgery), steroids and supplements, eating disorders, chronic illness, and physical disabilities, clubs, cliques, and friends, school, work, hobbies, beliefs, aspirations, and experiences. With the help of this book, teens will come that much closer to achieving self-actualization.

"...appropriate for adults who work with teens, affording them some insight into young adult lives. The book's aim is to help teens 'figure out who you are.' Chapters cover such broad topics as 'Who You Hang Out With,' 'You Body,' 'The Things You Do,' and 'The Influences Around You.' The authors do not talk down to teens, but they lay out facts plainly and fairly. A section about alcohol explains why some people drink (cultural tradition) and what some of the detrimental affects of drinking are ('people who drink don't just do stupid things, sometimes they do dangerous things'). The authors also try to show a teen's viewpoint, such as pointing out positive peer pressure ('you probably already knew your friends can be good for you')...." - VOYA

"This guide for teenagers provides tools for exploring their developing identities. Some of the aspects of identity covered include family, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, friends, school interests, work, and aspirations. A number of health- and body-related issues are also discussed, including tattoos, plastic surgery, eating disorders, physical disabilities, and steroids. Gowen teaches community health at Portland State U., and McKenna is a psychologist in private practice." - Reference and Research Book News