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The term adolescence is derived from the Latin word “adolescence’ that means to grow to adulthood. Adolescence begins as a separate developmental stage at about the age 11 and ends at about the age of 22, the adolescence developmental stage can be distinguished based on physical and psychological characteristics and social roles. Adolescence is considered the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood that occurs between ages 13 and 19 (Santrock, 2018). But the physical and psychological changes that take place in adolescence can start earlier, during the preteen years between ages 9 and 12. Stanley Hall (1844-1924) is known as the father of adolescent psychology. He constructed a psychological theory of teenage development, and one major aspect of his theory was that this stage of life is characterized by ‘storm and stress” that most teens are by nature moody and untrustworthy.
The many physical, sexual, cognitive, social, and emotional changes that happen during this time can bring anticipation and anxiety for both adolescence and their families. Understanding what to expect at different stages can promote healthy development throughout adolescence and into early adulthood.
1. Physical development
1.2. Psychological effect of physical changes
Irrespective of being an early or late maturer, a youngster will often experience social and psychological consequences of the physical changes on his or her body. During the adolescence period, adolescents are acutely aware of the physical changes they experience; for instance, they believe that everyone watches them and that their bodies constantly betray them.
Girls worry about menarche, and it is a negative experience especially when it begins at a very early age. They experience a high level of depression, especially those who had not been prepared for menstruation. On the other hand, girls who are prepared for this event usually accept it as a sign of femininity.
The physical changes also result in an increase in social maturity. Boys get concerned very much with the uncontrolled erection of the penis and ejaculation. Although most boys are proud of this ability and see it as a sign of virility, the inability to control erection leads to embarrassment. Nocturnal emissions also make some boys feel humiliated and guilty. Uncontrolled erections make some boys afraid of participating in activities (dancing).
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