Adolescence is a time when young people experience major changes physically, emotionally and socially. It is an important stage of transition from childhood to adulthood and comes with many different changes. Understanding the changes that children going through puberty go through can help both young people and their families to better manage this period. Here is more information about the changes that occur during puberty:
Physical Changes
Adolescence is often characterized by a period of rapid growth and development. It is one of the periods when physical changes are most pronounced and the following changes are usually observed in children entering puberty:
Growth and Development: During puberty, young people’s height and weight gain accelerate. In boys, body parts such as arms, legs, shoulders and chin usually become more prominent, while in girls, growth is observed in the hips and chest.
Sexual Development: Puberty is a transition period towards sexual maturity. During this period, the secretion of sex hormones increases in adolescents and significant changes occur in the genital area. In boys, changes such as enlargement of the testicles, lengthening and hardening of the penis, hair growth, thickening of the voice are observed, while in girls, symptoms such as breast development, the beginning of the menstrual cycle, and body hair growth occur.
Acne and Acne: Acne and acne problems are common during puberty due to hormonal changes. Skin oiliness increases and this can trigger acne formation. This can cause self-confidence problems in young people.
Emotional Changes
Adolescence is a period of great emotional and behavioral change. Young people may face a variety of emotional challenges in the process of finding their identity. Emotional changes during adolescence can include
Mood Changes: Sudden and intense emotional fluctuations are common in adolescents. They may be happy and energetic one moment and sad or angry the next. This can make it difficult for young people to maintain emotional balance.
Seeking Independence: During adolescence, young people seek independence and autonomy. They may show rebellion and resistance against their parents, and the desire to make their own decisions and take responsibility increases.
Friendship Relationships: Adolescence is a time when social relationships are important. Adolescents tend to spend more time with their peers and expand their social circles. Friendship relationships play an important role in helping adolescents find their identity and express themselves.
Adolescence is a period of great physical and emotional change for young people. Understanding the changes experienced during this period can help young people manage this process in a healthier way and enable families to support their young people.
