Dimensional Assessment of Autonomy in Middle and Late Adolescence

Abstract

One of the most important developmental tasks in adolescence is the acquirement of autonomy and independence. A sample of 1240 adolescents has been assessed with the Personal Autonomy Questionnaire from Cognitrom Assessment System), regarding 4 dimensions of autonomy: value, behavioral, cognitive, and emotional autonomy. The results show that late adolescents have a more developed value, and behavioral and cognitive autonomy than middle adolescents and the urban area residents have a better-developed autonomy in all its dimensions than rural area residents. No significant differences between males and females were found. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed.