The authors highlight the importance of individual, family, and social processes involved in adolescent development and how they may sustain transition to adulthood or, on the other hand, lead to a standstill in growth. They examine pathological dynamics that result in pathological symptoms, which are signs of a break in the continuity of psychic existence. A case discussion points out the importance of earlier relationships and how during psychotherapy sessions they progressively change towards recovery.
Keywords: Adolescence, break, psychopathology, parents, psychotherapy, development