In what way has Ponyboy matured in The Outsiders?

In the beginning of the novel "The Outsiders" Pony Boy is rebellious of his older brother's, Darry's, authority over him.  He believes that Darry is picking on him.

 "Me and Darry just didn't dig each other." (13)

Darry has had to step in the parental role since the death of the boy's parents.  Pony Boy is resistive to Darry taking on his new role and thinks Darry doesn't care about him.

Pony Boy only identifies himself as a Greaser.  He does not understand that there is another way of life than fighting and hating the Socs.  When he meets Cherry he becomes aware that there are poeple on "the other side" who he can talk with and relate to.  The lines between the Socs and the Greasers is beginning to thin. 

After the incident with Bob's death, his running away, the fire, and Johnny's death , Pony Boy matures.  He becomes aware that his Brother, Darry, is only trying to protect and take care of him.  He also begins to realize that Johnny was right about fighting not being worthwhile.  He also begins to realize that there is a possibility for change and that there is more to life than what he is experiencing in the neighborhood.