Adolescence

• Adolescence is a transitional stage of physical and mental human development that occurs between childhood and adulthood
• Adolescence is a period of life when the body undergoes development leading to reproductive maturity
• The period between 10-19 years of age in an individual's life is called adolescence
• Adolescence normally begins around the age of 11 and lasts up to 18 or 19 years of age
• In girls, adolescence may begin a year or two earlier than in boys
• Physical changes during adolescence include:

  • Increase in height, with a sudden spurt in growth
  • Change in body shape, with girls developing broader hips and boys broader shoulders
  • Change in voice, with boys developing a deep, hoarse voice and girls a high-pitched voice
  • Increased activity of sweat and sebaceous glands, leading to acne and pimples
• During puberty, the reproductive systems of boys and girls mature

  • In girls, puberty starts at about twelve years with the development of breasts
  • In boys, puberty starts at about thirteen years with the enlargement of the testes
  • Puberty is brought on by hormones produced by the testes and ovaries
  • Secondary sexual characteristics develop, such as voice changes in boys and breast development in girls
• Psychological changes during adolescence:

  • Adolescents become self-conscious and worry about their physical growth
  • They start feeling shy and hesitant to share their problems
  • Adolescents worry about their future and may develop depression due to hormonal changes affecting emotions and moods
  • Adolescents prefer to spend time with their peers and imitate their behaviors
• Adolescence is a crucial age that brings emotional and psychological changes
• During adolescence, individuals may try to imitate their peer group and may develop habits like smoking, drinking, or drug addiction
• Adulthood follows adolescence, where individuals attain full physical growth and emotional stability
• Values learned during childhood and adolescence are grounded in adulthood, with a strong vision for the future dominating
• Personal hygiene is important for maintaining one's health during adolescence
• Proper and safe food practices:

  • Adolescents should have a balanced diet including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals
  • Milk is good for bones, and fruits and vegetables provide nourishment
  • Freshly prepared food should be consumed, and excessive consumption of fast foods should be avoided
• Proper lifestyle practices:

  • Adequate sleep and regular exercise are necessary for good health
  • Avoid long hours of continuous table work, excessive TV/computer use, smoking, and alcohol/drug consumption
• Cleanliness practices:

  • Wash hands with soap before and after meals
  • Clean teeth after each meal and before bed
  • Take regular baths with clean water and soap, change clothes daily, and avoid wearing very tight clothes
  • Adopt regular toilet habits and keep feet, hair, and eyes clean
• Physical exercise:

  • Regular walking, exercise, and outdoor games are important for maintaining physical health and combating stress during adolescence
• Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain caused by various demands
• When stressed, the body releases hormones that speed up heart rate, breathing, and provide a burst of energy
• Stress management is essential for a happy and successful life in modern society
• Ways to manage stress include:

  • Yoga for physical poses, controlled breathing, and meditation
  • Regular exercise for improved health and control
  • Proper sleep schedule, reading, positive thinking, laughing, deep breathing, meditation, time management, and hobbies for relaxation and stress relief
• What are the male and female sex hormones called?


  Male: Testosterone Female: Estrogen
• What is Adam’s apple?

  Larynx seen bulging out in boys
• Stress is also called?

  Tension