AP PSYCH Module 3.2b Physical Development Across the Lifespan: Adolescence and Adulthood

Adolescence

the transition period from childhood to adulthood, extending from puberty to independence

G. Stanley Hall

one of the first psychologists to describe adolescence; described this time period as a time of "storm and stress"

Puberty

the period of sexual maturation, during which a person usually becomes capable of reproducing

Menarche

first menstrual period

Frontal lobe

the part of the brain that controls many aspects of human thought , behavior, and emotions - decision making/risk vs rewards, developing until 25

Myelin

the fatty tissue that forms around axons and speeds up neurotransmission, enables better communication with other brain regions, still growing until 25 then starts to deteriorate

Limbic system

helps regulates your emotions and behaviors, fully developed

Menopause

the time of natural cessation of menstruation; also refers to the biological changes a woman experiences as her ability to reproduce declines

Death-deferral phenomenon

people tend to put off dying when there is an event to look forward to