Adolescence (Chapters 9-10) Development is an intricate, unified process that takes place throughout the lifespan. In adolescence three main developmental tasks are underway including physical development, cognitive development, and identity development.
Physical Development When speaking of physical development in adolescence, both genetic and environmental factors play a role in a process of sexual maturation known as puberty (p. 283). Physically growth spurts in height and weight, as well as, external and internal sexual dimorphism is taking place during adolescent development (p. 285). Additionally, during adolescence, it is not uncommon to see an increase in risky behavior, conflict with parents, moodiness, and negative affect (p. 285). These behavioral changes are often referred to as the “storm and stress” of adolescence (p.286). Such mood changes and negative affect is linked to the increase in hormones during adolescence. Sexual exploration is another common occurrence that takes place during adolescence (p. 289). The main contribution factor to such exploration is sexual maturation, but other factors such as cultural, social, and familial all play into the emergence of sexuality as well (p. 289). Growth of the brain including pruning, …show more content…
During adolescence logical thinking emerges in which adolescents’ are able to grasp abstract concepts and discover relationships among relationships (p. 296). This emergence of formal operational thought allows for the construction of ideals contributing to adolescent egocentrism due to the new found critical eye (p. 297). Adolescence has a distinct inward focus due to the improved ability to think about one’s own thinking combined with the need to from an adult identity (p. 302, 303). Personal fable and the imaginary audience are two occurrences that often transpire due to adolescent