Adolescence
Adolescence is the transition between childhood and adulthood (ages 10 to 19), marked by rapid physical, mental, and social changes. Teens experience puberty causing growth spurts and other physical developments. Their thinking is complex, allowing for abstract reasoning and problem-solving. Socially and emotionally, adolescents explore their identity and relationships, learning to manage emotions and build self-esteem. This stage is for growth, self-discovery, and developing the vital skills needed for adulthood.
During adolescence, puberty brings rapid growth and physical changes. Teens experience growth spurts and changes in body structures. Hormones also trigger changes like body hair, acne, and increased sweating. These changes happen at different rates for each teen and can affect a teen’s confidence and self-image.
Physical Changes:
Adolescents’ thinking is more advanced, as they develop better decision-making, planning, and critical thinking skills. However, the frontal part of the brain (frontal cortex) that controls impulse and judgment is still developing. Teens may take risks or act emotionally, but their capacity for creativity and reasoning grows rapidly.
Cognitive/Mental Changes:
Teenagers are exploring their identity, independence, and relationships. They develop self-awareness, empathy, and social skills. In this time, friendships and peer approval become important. Emotional ups and downs are common, and self-esteem can be influenced by physical changes and social comparison.
Social/Emotional Changes:
The Teen
Connection
Why does it matter for teens?
Learning about adolescent development helps teens understand the changes they’re experiencing in their bodies, minds, and emotions. It explains why they might feel more independent or unsure at times, and helps them navigate social pressures. By learning about physical growth teens can build self-confidence. This knowledge also prepares them for adulthood by giving them tools to manage challenges, set goals, and create a strong sense of who they are.
Healthy Minds: Psychology Corner
Jean Piaget's Theory of Childhood Development
Formal Operational stage (12 years and up) ---
During adolescence, teens enter the formal operational stage of cognitive development. They begin to think abstractly and can reason about hypothetical situations. Teens can consider moral, social, and philosophical questions, and use deductive reasoning to solve problems. This stage allows them to plan for the future by weighing multiple solutions. Thus, teens are able to think more scientifically about the world around them.
Erik Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development
Identity vs. Role Confusion (Ages 12–18)
During adolescence, teens try to figure out their values, goals, and beliefs. This stage called identity versus role confusion is when young people experiment with different roles and activities. Successfully forming a strong sense of identity helps teens feel capable of building meaningful relationships. Teens who struggle may feel uncertain about themselves or their future. Family guidance, supportive friendships, and opportunities for self-expression help teens develop a healthy sense of self.
Glossary
Jean Piaget
a Swiss psychologist who studied how children think and learn. He discovered that kids go through specific stages of mental development