Knowra Adolescent development Adolescent development Adolescent development is the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social change that occurs as people move from childhood toward adulthood. Its timing and course vary across individuals and cultures.
Puberty : The biological process through which a child's body develops reproductive capacity and secondary sex characteristics. Hormonal changes in puberty drive many visible physical changes of adolescence.
Developmental psychology : The scientific study of how people change and remain stable across the lifespan. Adolescent development is one period within this broader study of human change.
Adolescent health : The physical, mental, and social health of people in the adolescent age range. Developmental needs guide preventive care and health services for adolescents.
Emerging adulthood : A proposed life stage, usually spanning the late teens through the twenties, marked by exploration and delayed adult roles. It distinguishes extended transitions after adolescence from adolescence itself.
Identity formation : The process of developing a coherent sense of self, values, and social belonging. Exploration of roles and commitments is especially prominent during adolescence.
Adolescent brain development : Structural and functional changes in the brain that continue through adolescence and into early adulthood. Maturing neural systems help explain shifts in planning, emotion, and reward sensitivity.
Life course : The sequence of socially defined stages and transitions that people experience over time. Adolescence is a life stage whose boundaries and expectations vary across societies.
Adolescent medicine : A medical specialty focused on the health care needs of adolescents and young adults. It adapts clinical care to puberty, confidentiality, and growing autonomy.
Childhood : The period of human life between infancy and adolescence, generally preceding puberty and adult roles. Comparing childhood with adolescence highlights changes in autonomy, bodies, and social expectations.
Adolescent risk-taking : Engagement by adolescents in behaviors with potential for harm or uncertain outcomes. Developmental changes in reward sensitivity and social context influence risk-taking patterns.
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