ABSTRACT
Trust and mistrust both have evolutionary-biological and ontogenetic-interpersonal roots. These roots reside in the early infant-caretaker attachment processes and evolve further as the child grows. This chapter delineates the roots of mistrust in the adolescent from the psychological and sociocultural perspective, merging data derived from empirical research with anecdotal examples from clinical and non-clinical populations. On the base of a secure internalized working model and healthy self-esteem, the adolescent must begin a psychic reorganization in order to develop a more adult coherent identity. Cultural norms, societal institutions, peers, economic forces, health care and educational policies, laws, and law enforcement, all influence the stability of adolescents' life and contribute to their trust and mistrust of the world around them. Healthy and stable functioning requires the development of a balance between trust and mistrust. Violence in the schools and community, drinking, and bullying contribute to the mistrust.
