Teen

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Teen is a term used to describe individuals who are between the ages of 13 and 19 years old. This period of life is characterized by significant physical, psychological, and social changes, which are largely driven by puberty. The concept of the "teenager" emerged in the 20th century and is largely a product of Western culture.

Physical Development[edit | edit source]

During the teen years, individuals undergo significant physical changes due to puberty. This includes growth spurts, the development of secondary sexual characteristics, and changes in body composition. Puberty typically begins between the ages of 10 and 14 for girls and between 12 and 16 for boys, although this can vary significantly.

Psychological Development[edit | edit source]

Teenagers also experience significant psychological changes. This includes the development of more complex thinking abilities, increased self-awareness, and a greater understanding of abstract concepts. Many teens also begin to question their identity and explore different roles, beliefs, and values.

Social Development[edit | edit source]

Social development is another key aspect of the teen years. During this time, individuals often begin to shift their focus from their family to their peers. This can lead to changes in social dynamics and can sometimes result in conflict with parents or other authority figures.

Challenges[edit | edit source]

The teen years can also be a challenging time. Many teens struggle with issues such as peer pressure, bullying, and mental health concerns. Additionally, this is often the time when individuals first experiment with risky behaviors, such as substance use and sexual activity.

Support[edit | edit source]

Supporting teens during this time is crucial. This can include providing them with accurate information, helping them to develop healthy coping strategies, and ensuring that they have access to appropriate support services.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Teen Resources
Wikipedia
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD