Rose's Adolescence: Chapter Analysis

In his chapter “Adolescence” describing the personal experiences of his mother and other waitresses, Rose (2004) argues that the position of a waitress requires a much larger spectrum of abilities than one would perceive (p.2). A few criteria regarding Rose’s argumentation include the physical abilities needed such as endurance and balance (pp.8-9); the required recollection skills in order to memorize restaurant layout, routines and menu items (p.10); and the emotional skills needed in order to properly satisfy customers (pp.19-20).

Senior (2014) who explores the effects of children whom transition into adolescence, suggests that the parents are as well effected, exposing them in their vulnerable and existential states (p.189). Senior
These problems can vary from marriage, work related issues or even conflicts hidden within the conscious (p.187). A study published by Steinberg reports that “forty percent of his sample suffered a decline in mental health once their first child entered adolescence…” (as cited in Senior, 2014, p.186). Additionally, Senior suggests that since parents are used to nurturing their children, they fear for their physical safety and economic security as they grow up (p.188). Consequently, the parents are exacerbated further as they are unsure whether or not to treat their adolescent as a child or an adult (p.188). Furthermore, Senior follows by indicating how parents feel isolated from their autonomy seeking child (p.193). Senior discovers that there is a decline in time adolescents spend with their family, because of ingratitude and the desire for independence (pp.193-194). Senior suggests that the sentiment of isolation of a parent can vary based on specific circumstances. For example, parents who have the same sex as their child will be effected at a higher degree by the separation (p.198). Finally, Senior proposes that parents become more reflective of their past when their child undergoes the transition to adolescence (p.226). Senior suggests that parents become more regretful of their past decisions and would enjoy the opportunity to start afresh (p.226). These past decisions may include choice of spouse, lifestyle or career (p.231). Inclusively, Senior suggests that parents can be regretful on their overall parenting, like errors parents have made that were seen by their children