GEE13 - LESSON 4: Understanding Adolescent Development

Adolescent Development

It is the transitional process of physical, mental, emotional, social, and sexual growth from childhood to adulthood.

Early Adolescence (Ages 10–13)

It is the initial stage marked by the onset of puberty, rapid bodily changes, and emerging self-awareness.

Middle Adolescence (Ages 14–17)

It is the developmental stage characterized by identity exploration, visible physical maturation, and strong peer influence.

Late Adolescence (Ages 18–21)

It is the stage of development where physical growth completes and independence, maturity, and long-term planning strengthen.

Puberty

It is the biological process that initiates sexual maturation through hormonal changes.

Growth Spurts

It is the rapid increase in height and physical size occurring during early developmental change.

Breast Development

It is the physical maturation of chest tissue as a sign of female sexual development.

Menstruation

It is the cyclical shedding of the uterine lining that signals reproductive capability.

Testicular Growth

It is the enlargement of male reproductive organs indicating the beginning of reproductive maturation.

Facial Hair Development

It is the growth of hair on the face as a male secondary sex characteristic.

Body Hair Development

It is the appearance of hair in new body areas as a result of hormonal influence.

Acne And Oily Skin

It is the skin condition caused by increased oil production during hormonal change.

Physical Development In Early Adolescence (Ages 10–13)

It is the stage where puberty begins, marked by growth spurts, testicular enlargement in boys, breast development in girls, body hair growth, acne, and oily skin.

Physical Development In Middle Adolescence (Ages 14–17)

It is the stage where maturation accelerates with boys developing deeper voices and increased muscle mass, girls experiencing hip broadening and regular menstrual cycles, and appearance becoming a major concern.

Physical Development In Late Adolescence (Ages 18–21)

It is the stage where growth completes, muscles and organs reach full maturity, and focus shifts to fitness, grooming, and long-term health maintenance.

Mental Growth In Early Adolescence (Ages 10–13)

It is the stage where concrete thinking predominates, long-term planning is limited, and emotional reasoning shapes decision-making.

Mental Growth In Middle Adolescence (Ages 14–17)

It is the stage where abstract thinking emerges, complex ideas can be understood, but impulsivity and emotion-driven decisions remain frequent.

Mental Growth In Late Adolescence (Ages 18–21)

It is the stage where critical thinking, logical planning, and mature problem-solving skills develop, enabling realistic future-oriented decisions.

Emotional & Social Growth In Early Adolescence (Ages 10–13)

It is the stage where intense, rapidly shifting emotions occur, self-consciousness rises, and same-sex friendships are prioritized.

Emotional & Social Growth In Middle Adolescence (Ages 14–17)

It is the stage where peer influence peaks, identity exploration continues, possible friction with parents may arise, and social skills for intimate relationships begin to develop.

Emotional & Social Growth In Late Adolescence (Ages 18–21)

It is the stage where emotional stability increases, independence is achieved, and adult-like relationships with peers and parents are formed.

Sexual Awareness In Early Adolescence (Ages 10–13)

It is the stage where curiosity about the opposite sex emerges, crushes develop, body awareness increases, and questions about sexuality begin.

Sexual Awareness In Middle Adolescence (Ages 14–17)

It is the stage where sexual attraction strengthens, exploration of intimacy occurs, and sexual orientation and identity are questioned and developed.

Sexual Awareness In Late Adolescence (Ages 18–21)

It is the stage where sexual identity clarifies, responsible sexual behavior and consent are emphasized, and romantic relationships are approached with maturity.