I asked this question to my tween son in an attempt to relate to his current interests.  My reward for asking was more valuable than I could have guessed.

His reply was, “Hans Solo, Chewbacca, or Yoda.”  The explanation for his choices was that all three characters were “laid back.”  BINGO!  My son was recognizing in these characters one of his own attributes.  Accurate self-assessment is part of healthy self-esteem.  Although my son didn’t articulate it, the laid back attitude of these characters, though very different in personality from one another, gave them each a measure of personal power.  Someday, if not already, he’ll see this trait as part of his inner strength.

If you want a window into your tween’s self-concept, values, and aspirations, ask a question like this and be prepared to answer it yourself.  Me?  My favorite character was always R2-D2.  I just never knew that it was because of his dependability, intelligence, and loyalty – traits I admire in any robot – I mean, person.