Abstract
Adolescence is one of the most crucial and challenging developmental stages to navigate. This critical stage of life marks an important time when individuals learn how to incorporate independence and autonomy with healthy decision-making. Relationships are a strong factor in mental and emotional wellness during adolescence. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated quarantine limited opportunities for connectedness outside the home. This may have affected adolescents in unhealthy ways, negatively impacting their sense of support, belonging, and closeness with others. Understanding, evaluating, and promoting connectedness during adolescence is now more essential than ever. The purpose of this concept analysis is to add to what has previously been addressed regarding adolescent connectedness in an effort to promote healthy behaviors during this stage of development and into adulthood.
Funding
The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.