In developmental psychology, conflicts often arise between parents and adolescents because:

• A. Parents and adolescents always have identical values and goals.
• B. Adolescents typically have no desire for autonomy during this stage.
• C. Parents generally encourage complete freedom without any boundaries.
• D. Adolescents are striving for greater independence while parents may wish to maintain control.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key psychological concept involved: the conflict between parents and adolescents during developmental stages.
2. Understand that adolescence is a period characterized by a striving for autonomy and independence, which can lead to conflicts with parents who may want to maintain control.
3. Recognize that the incorrect options suggest either identical values and goals, no desire for autonomy, or parents encouraging complete freedom, which do not align with typical developmental psychology findings.
4. Focus on the dynamic where adolescents seek greater independence while parents attempt to set boundaries and maintain authority.
5. Conclude that the conflict arises because of this natural tension between adolescent autonomy and parental control, which is a common theme in developmental psychology.