Development Studies Commons^™

Zeroing In On Heroes: Adolescents’ Perceptions Of Hero Features And Functions, Elaine L. Kinsella, Alison English, Jennifer Mcmahon

Heroism Science

Recent research has revealed that having a personal hero can offer psychological resources to adults, particularly during challenging times. Yet we know little about the role that heroes play in the lives of adolescents – a period of human development when challenges are plentiful, and adolescents are increasingly open to the influence of others outside the family unit. In the present study, adolescent perspectives were sought on types and characteristics of heroes, and the psychological and social functions provided by heroes for young people. Four focus groups were conducted with adolescents (N = 22) aged 15 to 17 years at …