(Dis) Respect in the M(ai)cro Context: Positioning Respect as a Developmental Need of Adolescence

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The concept of respect has been largely overlooked in developmental science. Yet respect, or lack there-of, is often central to key psycho-social outcomes during adolescence (e.g., interpersonal relationships, behavioral choices). The research that has examined respect often focuses on micro-level interactions, ignoring the ways macro-level forces (e.g. racism, sexism) complicate notions of (dis)respect. Given the gaps, this theoretical paper utilizes m(ai)cro developmental theory to consider the ways macro- level master narratives shape respect for marginalized and privileged adolescents. In addition, this paper presents a new process and conceptualization of the development of respect within the m(ai)cro. Lastly, we present humanizing versions of the development of respect.