During the adolescent years, a child is hard at work carving out an identity and forming friendships with peers who either share his interests or reflect the values, behavior, and social wherewithal he'd like to possess, himself. At thirteen and fourteen, a child's opinion of himself is largely based on what others think of him, and so is quite fragile. The lofty air he exhibits one minute—"I really belted that softball! Now, everyone will want me on their team!"—can just as quickly be erased— "Sara sat by Paul at lunch today. I guess she doesn't like me, after all."
Both in school and out of school, an adolescent's experiences, achievements, and sense of confidence have tremendous social implications. And, as you might suspect, these experiences—whatever their outcome—are largely based on learning style.
Most Lookers won't actively seek feedback from friends or family, but are nonetheless well aware of others' opinions. A raised eyebrow here or a scornful glance there is all the proof a Looker needs that peer judgment is being passed. At thirteen, the Looker is as self-motivated and goal-oriented as ever, but the fruits of his labors are not held in as high regard as they were a few years back. Let's face it, good grades and manners just don't impress teens as much as friendliness, a sense of humor, athletic ability, or stylish clothes—none of which is likely to be among a Looker's strong points! Adolescent Lookers tend to have one or two close friends, though they don't share much personal information with them. And, while they may appear outwardly serene. Lookers' reticence and inability to make small talk usually combine to make these teens downright uncomfortable at group social events.
Friends' opinions are a veritable driving force for adolescent Listeners. The average Listener is so group-focused that his sociability often prevents him from developing any personal interest beyond reading. The Listener will join a team or club if accompanied by his friends, but is more interested in monitoring the words and actions of its older members and having a good time than in achieving a group goal. Because Listeners are so friendly and outgoing, "fitting in" is not a problem, but in the classroom, a Listener's talkativeness and love of the limelight earn as much teacher disapproval as they do classmate admiration. At thirteen, however, school performance is of lower priority than social status. Lookers may be lauded by the adults in their life, but Listeners are popular with the group that really counts—their peers!
By eighth grade. Movers are finally able to taste the hard-won respect of their classmates. The Mover's tendency to cut up in class is suddenly seen in a new light. Although his antics probably annoyed his grade- school classmates, adolescent peers are likely to find his behavior amusing, and may secretly wish to act the same way. Moreover, the thirteen- or fourteen-year-old Mover's athletic prowess and muscular physique are often the envy of his male peers, while females are thrilled by his playing performances and by the remote air that is, in actuality, a result of social unease. At this age, female Movers are often worlds apart from their same-sex peers in terms of interests and skills, but are readily accepted as "pals" by boys. Movers have spent years scrambling to match the accomplishments of their Looker and Listener classmates.
Suddenly—effortlessly—it is their natural ability that earns them peer admiration. Adolescent Movers never lack for friends, for everyone now wants to be one!