Mexican Daughter Sparknotes

“I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” by Erika L. Sanchez follows the life of Julia Reyes, a first-generation Mexican-American teenager grappling with the loss of her older sister and complex cultural dynamics. We follow her throughout her adolescent development, from her sophomore year of high school to the summer of her senior year as she confronts various challenges whilst striving to pursue her dreams. Julia unapologetically has big dreams, wanting to go to college and become a well-renowned New York writer. Julia is a complicated character, described as complex, intelligent, and sarcastic. Her confusing relationship with the Identity of a Mexican American daughter is a central message reinforced throughout the entirety of the novel.

Role Confusion. Erik Erickson was a psychoanalyst who categorized different social developments within individuals. Focusing on how an individual’s behavior and personality are influenced by societal expectations, relationships, and values. Erickson’s theory centered upon psychosocial development, contrary to Jean Piaget, who focused more on cognitive growth and early child development. The stages of Erickson’s theory goes as follows, the first stage taking place from birth to eighteen months. This state is called trust vs. mistrust. The child is completely dependent on caregivers, requiring proper care and love. This stage is particularly important in establishing trust and hope. The second stage, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, takes place within two to three years of age. This phase is focused on children developing a sense of autonomy and skills. Failures of this development could result in feelings of incompetence and doubt. Initiative vs. guilt, the third stage takes place within three to five years of age, during which children gain a sense of purpose and balance playing with others. However, children may face guilt as a result of unsuccessful play attempts. The fourth stage, industry vs. inferiority, takes place among children of five to eleven years of age. During this development children develop competence and belief within themselves, gaining a sense of freedom and self-determination. Lack of development within this period could negatively develop a child's ability to be successful, resulting in a sense of inferiority. Stage five takes place within 12 to 18 years of age. This psychosocial stage is identified as identity vs. role confusion. This stage transitions adolescents into adulthood, Julia Reyes, the protagonist resides within this period. Infamously, this stage is filled with adversity and experimentation