Final answer:
The capability of teenagers to make decisions in 'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' is linked to their stage of psychosocial development and factors like peer pressure and media influence. An argumentative essay on this topic must examine both the cognitive development and external influences on adolescents to provide a comprehensive analysis of their decision-making in the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question posed is whether adolescents in the story 'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' have the capacity to make great decisions. This literary discussion falls into the realm of English, specifically within the high school grade level. When crafting an argumentative essay on this topic, it is critical to consider the psychosocial development stage of adolescents. According to Erikson's theory, this is a time for identity formation versus role confusion. Teenagers may align with their peer group's expectations or their own burgeoning sense of self, often questioning 'Who am I?' and 'Who do I want to be?'
Adolescents develop the ability to reason logically, plan, and solve problems, which can influence their decision making. However, the influence of peer groups and media can play a significant role, as suggested by the needing guidance in navigating media consumption or potentially undergoing community service as part of their education. Furthermore, teenagers have been observed to selectively listen to either parents or peers when making decisions, depending on the social context and the type of dilemma they face.
Therefore, in tackling the ability of teenagers to make decisions in the story, one must explore not only the cognitive capabilities of adolescents but also the influence of external factors such as peer pressure and media. Understanding these dynamics can offer a nuanced picture of adolescent decision-making within the scope of the narrative.