Adolescence is the transitional phase of human development between childhood and adulthood, typically defined as the period from about 10 to 19 years of age, though some definitions extend it into the early 20s or even mid-20s
. It is marked by significant physical, cognitive, psychological, and social changes. Key characteristics of adolescence include:
- Physical development: Triggered by puberty, this involves hormonal changes leading to sexual maturation and growth in height, weight, and muscle mass
- Cognitive development: Adolescents experience improvements in abstract thinking, logical reasoning, and knowledge acquisition
- Psychosocial development: This period includes identity exploration, increased independence, emotional changes, and evolving relationships with peers and family. Adolescents begin to form their own values and social roles, often facing challenges related to emotional separation from parents and societal ambiguity about their roles
- Health implications: Adolescence is a critical time for establishing behaviors that affect long-term health, such as diet, physical activity, and substance use. Despite being generally healthy, adolescents face risks of illness, injury, and mental health challenges, many of which are preventable or treatable
- Developmental plasticity: Adolescence is a window of opportunity for positive growth and change, influenced by earlier life experiences but also marked by a capacity for resilience and adaptation
In summary, adolescence is a complex, dynamic stage of growth that prepares individuals for adult roles biologically, psychologically, and socially
