Final answer:
Adolescents are most likely to exhibit a decline in their endorsement of parental authority during early adolescence, as they strive for a stronger sense of independence and identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Adolescents experience the steepest decline in their willingness to endorse the idea that they are obligated to obey their parents and the legitimacy of their parents' authority claims during early adolescence. This phase is marked by significant developmental changes where adolescents begin to form their own identities and sense of self. The shift towards peer influence becomes more pronounced, as teenagers spend more time with their peer groups and begin to challenge adult authority, including that of their parents.
During early adolescence, there is a notable increase in risk-taking behavior and a push for independence. However, relationships with parents remain crucial and positive parent-child relationships are associated with better adolescent outcomes. The concept of emerging adulthood reflects a new phase where young people delay the onset of adult responsibilities, further impacting the dynamic of parental authority.