5 Adolescence Free Online FlashCards

What is adolescence?

Adolescence is the period of development between childhood and adulthood. Its boundaries vary as biological changes, social roles, and independence develop at different rates.

What is puberty?

Puberty is the sequence of hormonal and bodily changes that leads to sexual maturity.

What does variation in pubertal timing mean?

Pubertal timing and sequence vary widely. Being earlier or later than peers does not by itself mean that development is abnormal.

What are examples of executive functions?

Executive functions include planning, working memory, flexible thinking, and regulating actions. These skills continue to develop through adolescence.

How can sensitivity to social rewards affect adolescents?

Greater attention to social feedback and rewards can encourage exploration and new relationships, but can also make some choices more sensitive to peer influence.

What does identity mean in adolescent development?

Identity is a developing sense of who one is, what one values, and what one hopes to become.

What social language skills develop during adolescence?

Adolescents develop language skills for interpreting implied meanings, humor, irony, and other forms of social communication.

What social purpose can slang serve?

Slang and other group-specific ways of speaking can express belonging and distinguish one social group from another.

How can peers influence adolescents?

Peers can provide companionship and practice in cooperation, loyalty, conflict resolution, and intimacy. Their influence can encourage positive choices or increase pressure to take risks.

How can families support growing adolescent independence?

Adolescents may seek more privacy and decision-making freedom, but family support remains important. Warm communication, clear expectations, and available adults can help them navigate responsibilities.

Why is family and school connectedness important?

Feeling cared for, supported, and included at home or school is associated with better well-being and can be protective.

When should persistent emotional or behavioral changes prompt professional help?

Seek help from a health professional when emotional or behavioral changes last for weeks, cause significant distress, or interfere with school, home life, or relationships.