Abstract

In this introductory address to the the Congress of the Interntional Society for Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology (ISAPP) in Berlin September 14-18, 2011, incoming ISAPP President Annette Streeck-Fischer interprets the Adam and Eve story of Genesis in the Bible as a myth depicting adolescent development. Elements of sexual maturation, risk-taking, and separation from parents, are present in the story. We are reminded of the many challenges todays adolescents face.

Keywords: Adolescents, myths, Adam and Eve, Bible, development, sexuality