Ch. 9
What is Adolescence?
Starts 10-12 years
Ends 18-22 years
Too many negative stereotypes
Puberty is the start
boys 10-13.5 years
early — more positive view of self and more friends
late — stronger identity
girls 9-15 years
early — increased risk of smoking, drinking, depression, physical and verbal abuse in relationships
Brain changes
corpus callosum thickens
limbic system — early
prefrontal — not done until 18-25
Puberty
A brain-neuroendocrine process that stimulates rapid physical changes
Most noticeable changes
signs of sexual maturation
increases in height/weight
Male
increases in body size
hair growth
voice change
Female
weight/height gains
hair growth
breast growth
menstruation
Hormonal Changes
testosterone
estradiol (type of estrogen)
Hormone-behavior link
hormones may contribute to psychological development
social factors
behavior and mood can also affect hormones
Body Image
preoccupation
correlation with internet usage
Sexual Identity
the bridge between the asexual and the sexual adult
Develop sexual identity
manage arousal and attraction
develop new forms of intimacy
skills to regulate sexual behavior
Involves
activities
interests
styles of behavior
sexual orientation
Sexual Intercourse
57.3% — 12th grade; 77% by 20
Active — 44% 12th grade, 35.3% 11th grade
Average age: 17
Oral Sex
girls 15-24 years — 58.6% performed, 60.4% received
lower rates of teen pregnancy
Sexually transmitted infections
15-24 years
HIV rising in some areas
Contraceptive use
53.8% report using
female teens — condom, withdrawal, pills
Adolescent Pregnancy
US higher rates than other countries
Decreasing
health classes
increase contraceptives
fear of STI
ethnic variations
higher rates Latinas and African Americans
lowest Asian Americans
Risk
mother: depression, drop out
infant: lower birth rate, more illness, neurological problems