Identity Development
Jordyn Steubing
Grand Canyon
University
BHS- 420 Human Development
Aimee Rhodes
9-8-24
, Introduction
Adolescence can be challenging for everyone involved, typically beginning around ten
and lasting until about nineteen. Significant physical and cognitive changes, including sexual
maturation, mark it. The timing of sexual maturation and overall development during
adolescence varies based on the individual, their environment, and genetics (Juyal, A. (2012).
Both early and delayed maturation can significantly impact an adolescent's identity
development. Today, sexual maturation is greatly influenced by the media, a factor that was not
always considered in the study of human development. Developing an individual's identity is a
crucial aspect of their sense of self and can be strongly influenced by media messages, moral
development, religious and cultural values, and peer pressure.
Advanced or delayed sexual maturation
Both early and late sexual maturation can significantly impact an individual's self-image
and social interactions. For instance, individuals who experience early sexual maturation may
feel self-conscious or different from their peers, potentially affecting their self-esteem and
social confidence. Delayed sexual maturity for males is usually defined as the absence of any
secondary sexual signs by age fourteen (Carter et al., 2020), such as facial hair, pubic hair, and
Adam's apples. In most cases of either premature or delayed sexual maturity, family situations
are the attributed reason. On the other hand, those with delayed sexual maturation may also face
similar challenges, feeling out of sync with their peers and potentially encountering social
pressures or teasing. These experiences can influence how individuals perceive themselves and
interact with others, highlighting the need for understanding and support during this critical
developmental stage.
Messages regarding sexual behavior
Jordyn Steubing
Grand Canyon
University
BHS- 420 Human Development
Aimee Rhodes
9-8-24
, Introduction
Adolescence can be challenging for everyone involved, typically beginning around ten
and lasting until about nineteen. Significant physical and cognitive changes, including sexual
maturation, mark it. The timing of sexual maturation and overall development during
adolescence varies based on the individual, their environment, and genetics (Juyal, A. (2012).
Both early and delayed maturation can significantly impact an adolescent's identity
development. Today, sexual maturation is greatly influenced by the media, a factor that was not
always considered in the study of human development. Developing an individual's identity is a
crucial aspect of their sense of self and can be strongly influenced by media messages, moral
development, religious and cultural values, and peer pressure.
Advanced or delayed sexual maturation
Both early and late sexual maturation can significantly impact an individual's self-image
and social interactions. For instance, individuals who experience early sexual maturation may
feel self-conscious or different from their peers, potentially affecting their self-esteem and
social confidence. Delayed sexual maturity for males is usually defined as the absence of any
secondary sexual signs by age fourteen (Carter et al., 2020), such as facial hair, pubic hair, and
Adam's apples. In most cases of either premature or delayed sexual maturity, family situations
are the attributed reason. On the other hand, those with delayed sexual maturation may also face
similar challenges, feeling out of sync with their peers and potentially encountering social
pressures or teasing. These experiences can influence how individuals perceive themselves and
interact with others, highlighting the need for understanding and support during this critical
developmental stage.
Messages regarding sexual behavior
