DEVPSYCH L7

• Adolescence

  The transitional period between childhood and adulthood, typically defined as occurring between the ages of 10 and 19
• Adolescence

  • Young people experience significant physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes
  • These changes help them develop their independence and establish their identity
• Puberty

  1. Triggered by hormonal changes

  2. Results in the development of secondary sexual characteristics for females (breast development, menstruation, changes in body shape)

  3. Results in the development of secondary sexual characteristics for males (growth of testes, penis, facial hair, deepening of voice)
• Physical changes in adolescence

  • Growth spurt (gain in weight and height)
  • Bodies become more proportional
  • Faces mature
• Health problems in adolescence

  • Nutrition problems (eating disorders, obesity)
  • Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol)
  • Mental health problems (depression, anxiety, schizophrenia)
  • Accidents and injuries
• Adolescent cognition

  • Prefrontal cortex (responsible for planning, decision-making, impulse control) continues to develop
  • Leads to improvements in reasoning, problem-solving, and abstract thinking
  • Prefrontal cortex doesn't fully mature until early to mid-20s, which can explain impulsive decisions and difficulty thinking long-term
• Role of schools in adolescence

  • Provide a place for adolescents to learn and grow academically, socially, and emotionally
  • Help identify and address health problems
  • Provide opportunities for students to explore interests, develop talents, and prepare for adulthood