Adolescence

Adolescence is the stage in a child’s growth and development that takes place between puberty and adulthood. It encompasses both physical and psychological developments. Although it is associated with the teenage years, the onset of adolescence may be earlier or later depending on the individual child. Adolescence mostly centers on the many body changes that occur as well as the child’s transition into adulthood. However, it is not all about the physical body changes that boys and girls experience. Psychological and cognitive developments also take place during this stage. Adolescent changes affect children and parents differently, and they could have negative effects if not approached effectively. For example, adolescents become more aware of their looks, particularly their changing and developing bodies, and may become sexually active. It is also at this stage that children are most exposed to extreme issues caused by peer pressure, which could lead children to engage in activities like drug abuse and sexual promiscuity. Experts believe that the main goal of adolescence is to prepare children for adult roles. They have outlined strategies to help parents guide their children through adolescence so that children become productive, informed adults.