Adolescence - Answers The term adolescence comes from the Late verb adolescence, which means "to
go into adulthood". Socially constructed.
Transition between childhood and adulthood - typically from ages 11-19.
Adolescence is a period of rapid physical, cognitive, sexual, social and emotional changes - the period is
characterised by change.
It is an adjustment period for the adolescent, their parents, and those who are in frequent contact with
them.
% of Adolescents - Answers In 2011 census, 12% of the UK population were aged 10-19 (approximately
7.4 million).
Large amount of people - same number as children. Why is childhood more researched despite such a
large potential sample?
"Multiple transitions" - Answers Adolescence is not just a transition from childhood to adulthood - it
involves multiple transitions.
Developed/Industrialised cultures - Answers In developed/industrialised cultures, adolescence starts
earlier and last longer; longer education, change in job market, etc.
Rites of passage (i.e. Bar Mitzvah) - Answers Pre-industrial societies:
- separation (from groups)
- training
- initiation
- induction
Functions:
- sense of adult responsibility
, - lessen ambiguity
- bond.
No formal equivalent in the UK - no clear event in the West to demonstrate adulthood.
Biological/reproductive dimension - Answers Beginning:
Onset of puberty
End:
Capable of sexual reproduction
Emotional dimension - Answers Beginning:
Parent detachment begins
End:
Attainment of separate identity (to parents)
Cognitive dimension - Answers Beginning:
Emergence of advanced reasoning (abstract thinking)
End:
Consolidation of reasoning
-) Caveat - not everybody is truly capable of abstract thinking
Interpersonal dimension - Answers Beginning:
Shift from parents to peers
End: