ABSTRACT
A number of researchers and practitioners have asserted that the behaviors of significant adults may be the most important factor influencing adolescent identity development. Effective professionals who demonstrate integrity and respect, show interest in youth and youth activities, and enjoy their time with kids are most likely to be viewed as positive role models. Children and adolescents need to learn to assess for themselves whether or not their behavior is helping them get what they want. If youngsters are not careful, self-centered goals such as winning power struggles may supersede more therapeutic goals such as teaching responsibility and facilitating self-evaluation with kids. Challenging youth are also desperately searching for role models who convey appreciation and respect for their diverse worldviews, opinions, beliefs, experiences, values, dress, and so forth. As a treatment foster care program, the professionals were often asked to transition youngsters from long-term residential or psychiatric placements back to the community.
