This article points out two contradictions in current adolescent theory. The first is between the "classical" point of view, espousing the notion of "storm and stress," and the "empirical" view, supporting a concept of adolescence as relatively peaceful and harmonious. The latter approach, however, creates a second contradiction because it does not explain how young people cope with the major adaptations demanded as a result of changes in their physical, social, and emotional spheres of life. The article examines the status of concepts such as the "generation gap" and "identity crisis" and concludes with the formulation of a "focal" theory of adolescence which attempts to resolve the contradictions discussed earlier.