Abstract

This topical review offers a descriptive reflection within a contextual framework in relation to the probable effects of poverty and public housing on the adolescent self and adolescent identity. The author hypothesizes that the lack of opportunities to channel the interests of adolescent youth, as well as the social segregation and stigmatization that they suffer from, have negative effects on their aspirations, goals and plans for realizing their aspirations in accordance with mainstream social standards. Self-representation will be affected by socio-spatial stigmatization in case of unfavorable comparisons with social groups that have higher status. The negative effects of living in a deficient neighborhood can be mitigated by parental practices and social participation spaces that contribute to the construction of positive identities. This topic is relevant as a contribution to contextual self theory and public policy.