A few factors of influence on ego development in adolescence have been discussed.

It is suggested that in adolescence a partial regression to the undifferentiated phase of object relationship occurs. This explains the increased need for a love object and the need for union with this love object. The need may find direct expression, or it may manifest itself in dedication to some cause or other. But it is always accompanied by the fear that the regression may go too far and result in dissolution of the self. This fear explains much of the adolescent's defiant and rebellious behavior, and his sudden, unpredictable changes of love object.