Adolescence and Adulthood

G. Stanley Hall

• First to describe adolescence as a distinct period of development.

• Called it a time of “storm and stress.”

Adolescence (Puberty to Adult Independence)

Physical Development

Puberty: The stage when the body matures sexually and becomes capable of reproduction.

• Typically begins between ages 8-13 in females and 9-14 in males.

• Marked by the development of:

  • Primary sex characteristics – Body structures directly related to reproduction.

  • Secondary sex characteristics – Visible changes not directly related to reproduction (e.g., body hair, voice changes).

Identity Formation

According to Erik Erikson, adolescents go through Identity vs. Role Confusion, where they explore and establish their sense of self.

Possible Identity Paths:

• Identity Diffusion: Lack of a clear identity and no effort to find one.

• Identity Foreclosure: Adopting values and expectations from parents without exploring alternatives.

• Moratorium: Actively exploring different roles but delaying long-term commitments.

• Negative Identity: Deliberately adopting behaviors that go against societal expectations.

Adolescent Thinking Patterns

• Imaginary Audience: Belief that others are constantly watching and judging them.

• Personal Fable: Feeling unique and special , leading to risky behaviors.

Adulthood

Signs of Adulthood:

• Accepting responsibility for oneself

• Making independent decisions

• Achieving financial independence

• Parenthood (for some)

Physical Changes:

• Peak physical abilities in early adulthood, followed by gradual decline.

• Reduced reproductive ability, mobility, flexibility, reaction time, and sensory functions (vision & hearing).

Health:

• Stronger immunity to short-term illnesses (e.g., colds, flu) due to accumulated antibodies.

• Weakened immune system with age, increasing vulnerability to diseases like cancer and pneumonia.

Cognitive Changes:

• Crystallized Intelligence (knowledge and verbal skills) increases with age.

• Fluid Intelligence (quick, abstract thinking) declines in late adulthood.

Aging and the Brain

• Dementia: Severe decline in thinking, memory, and reasoning that disrupts daily life.

• Alzheimer’s Disease: A common form of dementia, affecting memory and cognitive function.

• Brain Decline: Most noticeable in the frontal cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus.

• One in three elderly individuals will develop some form of dementia.

Social Expectations

• Social Clock: Society’s expected timeline for major life events (e.g., marriage, parenthood, retirement).