An overview of adolescence
The adolescent period in one’s life begins at approximately 10 years of age and lasts until 19 years. That is why they are called teenagers. It applies to both boys and girls. It is actually a transforming period from childhood to adulthood. Hence, they are neither a child nor an adult. This specific period is called the ‘adolescence period‘. It is a very crucial period in one’s life—the period where fast changes take place - physically, emotionally, socially and cognitively. It is a period of curiosity combined with confusion and astonishment. The most wanted guidance is the utmost need during this period for happiness and future development.
Special characteristics
The adolescent period is characterised by the following features as they grow up. Important features are listed here, which are noteworthy to learn more about it subsequently.
Physical changes
Emotional as well as psychological development
Social development
Cognitive growth
Let us discuss each and every development of adolescents here briefly to get the right grip of the features of adolescence.
Physical changes
The sudden spurt in the development of height, appearance, and voice
Breaking is accompanied by maturity in physical body changes.
Boys grow taller with voice deepening, muscular development
and growth of facial hair. Girls exhibit body shape, breast development
and onset of menstruation. These changes are significant and happen
due to hormonal changes in their body.
Emotional and psychological development
They are always moody and want aloofness. Wants independence and
questions authority. Mostly confused and feel joyful one day, the
next day, they feel anxious or sad.
Social development
They are subjected to peer pressure and want to be in groups. They
seek acceptance and recognition. The positive behaviour or negative
behaviour depends on which group they belong to. They are very
much attracted to today’s social media for everything and anything.
Cognitive growth
They seek knowledge in the spheres that they like most. They are
critical and analyse problems and try to find solutions to the problems.
They indulge in daydreaming about their future, especially their
careers and life. They experience academic stress, exams, and
competitions along with the fear of failure and results.
Conclusion
From the characteristics of adolescents, one can surely understand
the need for proper support and guidance during adolescence to
overcome their sufferings and to build up the skills necessary to
transition to adulthood. Who can provide appropriate support and
guidance to the needy? Yes, the parents, teachers, as well as society
itself, are the right persons at the right time. We will explore more
in the coming posts.
Please give your esteemed comments and suggestions on the
promotion of adolescents as they are.
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