* Acceptance of Grief: Though Holden struggles to deal with his brother's death throughout the book, he finally confronts his grief in the final chapter. This acceptance, though painful, marks a step towards maturity.
* Self-Awareness: He starts to acknowledge his flaws and unhealthy coping mechanisms. He recognizes his phoniness and his tendency to judge others. While he doesn't change these behaviors, he shows an awareness of them.
* Yearning for Connection: Despite his cynical views, Holden longs for genuine connection. He seeks it with Jane Gallagher, his sister Phoebe, and even with strangers like the prostitute Sunny. This yearning suggests a desire for something beyond his alienation.
* A Glimpse of Hope: Although he's disillusioned with the "phony" adult world, Holden displays a glimmer of hope in his desire to "catch" children before they fall into the same disillusionment. This vision, though idealistic and naive, reflects a desire for innocence and a yearning for a better world.
It's important to remember that Holden's changes are subtle and often contradictory. He remains a complex character who doesn't neatly resolve his internal conflicts by the end of the book. However, his journey provides a glimpse into the tumultuous world of adolescence and the struggles of navigating grief, identity, and the search for meaning.