Which adolescent's experience best illustrates the differential susceptibility theory?

Which adolescent's experience best illustrates the differential susceptibility theory?

• A. Nela's successful transition to college after finding a mentor
• B. Bashar's ongoing struggles with addiction despite attempts at change
• C. Kirra's resilience in overcoming family difficulties
• D. Sergey's delinquent behavior despite supportive parenting

Answer: (A)

The differential susceptibility theory posits that individuals vary in their sensitivity to both negative and positive environmental influences based on their innate characteristics. In this context, Nela's successful transition to college after finding a mentor exemplifies this theory well. She represents an individual whose positive experiences can greatly influence her developmental trajectory, highlighting how supportive relationships can foster growth and resilience in adolescents.

Nela's ability to thrive in a potentially challenging environment—like college—demonstrates that some individuals are particularly receptive to positive interventions, such as mentoring. This aligns with the principle of differential susceptibility, which suggests that certain individuals are more affected by their contexts, both positively and negatively, depending on their characteristics and backgrounds.