Lesson 4 | Developmental Stages - PerDev

• What is the definition of adolescence?

  Adolescence is defined as the period between the normal onset of puberty and the beginning of adulthood.
• What does the term 'adolescent' derive from in Latin?

  It derives from 'adolescent-', meaning 'coming to maturity', from 'adolescere', which means 'to grow up'.
• What significant transition occurs during adolescence?


  Adolescence is a stage in which young people move from dependency on their parents to independence, autonomy, and maturity.
• What are the biological challenges adolescents face during puberty?

  • Changes due to the release of sexual hormones
  • Increased mood changes affecting relationships
  • Impact on emotions and social interactions
• According to Piaget, what cognitive development occurs during adolescence?

  Adolescence is when young people develop from "concrete operations" to "formal operations".
• How do adolescents exhibit egocentrism during this stage?

  Adolescents can become self-conscious, thinking they are being watched, and may behave as if they are performing for a non-existent audience.
• What psychological challenges do adolescents face?

  • Transitioning from childhood to adulthood
  • Coping with self-discovery
  • Adjusting to new experiences, which can be stressful and anxiety-provoking
• What is an eating disorder?

  An eating disorder is characterized by irregular eating habits and severe distress or concern about body weight or shape.
• What are the types of eating disorders mentioned?

  • Anorexia Nervosa
  • Bulimia Nervosa
• What behaviors characterize anorexia nervosa in teenagers?

  Teenagers with anorexia may avoid eating and control the quantity and quality of food, often becoming abnormally thin while feeling fat.
• What is bulimia nervosa characterized by?

  Bulimia nervosa is characterized by binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise.
• What are anxiety disorders?

  Anxiety disorders are characterized by significant feelings of anxiety and fear, which may cause physical symptoms.
• What is major depressive disorder (MDD)?

  MDD is a period of at least 2 weeks with depressed mood or loss of interest in nearly all activities.
• What characterizes bipolar disorder?

  Bipolar disorder is characterized by periods of abnormally elevated mood and increased activity lasting at least 4 consecutive days.
• What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

  ADHD is characterized by severe problems with concentration or attention and/or hyperactivity.
• What is school phobia?

  School phobia is a persistent and irrational fear of going to school, distinct from mere dislike of school.
• What do learning disabilities encompass?

  Learning disabilities affect how individuals with normal intelligence receive, store, and use information, including dyslexia and other specific learning problems.
• What are the effects of sexual abuse on adolescents?

  • Problems of depression and low self-esteem
  • Avoidance of sexual contact
  • Possible promiscuity or prostitution
• What are the issues related to substance abuse among youth?

  • Early smoking or chewing tobacco
  • Excessive drinking of beer and liquor
  • Use of illegal drugs influenced by peers
• How does mass media influence adolescents?

  • Significant time spent on electronic devices
  • Activation and reinforcement of attitudes
  • Contribution to cognitive and social development
• What are the negative impacts of social media on adolescents?

  • Increased symptoms of social anxiety and isolation
  • Feelings of loneliness despite perceived connectedness
• What is the developmental task of adolescents according to Erik Erikson?

  • Exploring and figuring out their own identity
  • Developing a sense of self
  • Struggling with questions like "Who am I?" and "What do I want to do with my life?"