Adolescence: Physical and Cognitive Development

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding physical and cognitive development during adolescence, highlighting significant psychological theories and social dynamics.

Adrenarche

Phase 1 of puberty characterized by hormonal changes.

Gonadarche

Phase 2 of puberty involving the onset of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

Primary sex characteristics

Physical features directly related to reproduction that develop during puberty.

Secondary sex characteristics

Physical traits that develop during puberty but are not directly linked to reproduction, such as breast development and body hair.

Cognitive Development during Adolescence

Major improvements in attention, memory, processing speed, organization, and metacognition.

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erikson's stage in adolescence where individuals explore their identity and what roles they wish to assume.

Adolescent egocentrism

A developmental stage described by Elkind, where teenagers believe they are the focus of everyone else's attention.

Imaginary audience

The belief that others are equally concerned with an individual's appearance and behavior during adolescence.

Personal fable

A belief held by adolescents that they are special and unique, leading to feelings of invulnerability.

Social Development

Changes in social relationships and interactions that occur during adolescence.

Peer Pressure

Influence from peers that can encourage certain behaviors, which can be either positive or negative.

James Marcia's Identity Statuses

Framework that categorizes adolescents into four identity statuses: Achievement, Moratorium, Foreclosure, and Diffusion.

Life-Course Persistent vs. Adolescent-Limited

Moffitt's distinction between individuals who show consistent antisocial behavior across their lifespan (life-course persistent) versus those whose behavior is limited to adolescence.

Anxiety and Depression in Teens

Increased prevalence of anxiety and major depression among adolescents, often discussed in relation to gender and biological differences.