adolescent psych exam 1

Early adolescence

The period of development typically ranging from 10 to 13 years old.

Puberty

The biological changes that occur during adolescence, including hormonal changes and physical growth.

Cognitive transitions

Fundamental changes in thinking abilities during adolescence, such as abstract thinking and metacognition.

Peer groups

Social groups that play a significant role in adolescent development, including cliques and crowds.

Synaptic pruning

Process in the brain during adolescence where unnecessary neural connections are eliminated to increase efficiency.

Parenting styles

Different approaches to parenting, including authoritarian, authoritative, indulgent, and indifferent styles.

Circadian rhythm

The body's internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles, which shifts during adolescence.

Identity development

The psychosocial process through which adolescents form a sense of self and individuality.

Leisure activities

Structured and unstructured free time activities that adolescents engage in, such as extracurriculars.

Sex hormones

Hormones released during puberty that influence physical development and behavior in adolescents.

Adolescent Development Stages

• Early adolescence: 10-13 years old

• Middle adolescence: 14/15-17 years old

• Late adolescence: 18-21 years old

Fundamental Changes in Adolescent Development

• Biological: Puberty

• Cognitive

• Social

Context of Adolescent Development

• Family

• Peer groups

• Schools

• Work, Leisure, and Mass Media

Psychosocial Development of Adolescents

• Identity

• Autonomy

• Intimacy

• Sexuality

• Achievement

Brain Changes during Puberty

• Hormonal effects on brain, heart, organs, bones, muscles, and skin

• Role of adrenal, sebaceous, and pituitary glands

• Functions of testosterone and estrogen

• Myelination of axons for faster brain signals

• Role of neurons and the amygdala in emotional processing

Cognitive Transitions in Adolescence

• Thinking about possibilities

• Abstract concept thinking

• Metacognition (thinking about thinking)

• Egocentrism and its results: imaginary audiences, personal fable

• Thinking in multiple dimensions and relativism

Information Processing Changes

• Attention improvements and changes

• Memory changes in speed and organization

Parenting Styles

• Authoritarian

• Authoritative

• Indulgent

• Indifferent

Peer Groups in Adolescence

• Changes in peer group dynamics

• Difference between cliques and crowds

• Characteristics of cliques: size, common activities, friendships

• Characteristics of crowds: reputation-based, influence on identity and behavior

Leisure, Media, and Work

• Formal and informal occupations

• Structured and unstructured leisure time

• Types of formal work for adolescents

• Importance of leisure time for adolescents, including extracurricular activities.