Teenager

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Teenager is a term used to describe an individual who is between the ages of 13 and 19 years old. The term is derived from the English word "teen", which is used to denote numbers 13 to 19. The period of adolescence is most closely associated with the teenage years, although its physical, psychological and cultural expressions can begin earlier and end later.

Physical development[edit | edit source]

During the teenage years, adolescents experience significant physical changes. This includes puberty, which is the process of physical changes through which a child's body matures into an adult body capable of sexual reproduction. Puberty is initiated by hormone signals from the brain to the gonads. In response to these signals, the gonads produce a variety of hormones that stimulate the growth, function, or transformation of brain, bones, muscle, skin, breasts, and reproductive organs.

Psychological development[edit | edit source]

Teenagers also undergo significant psychological development during their teenage years. This includes the development of abstract thinking skills, self-identity, and the capacity for self-reflection. Teenagers may also experience changes in their emotional state, with many reporting feelings of extreme happiness or extreme sadness.

Social development[edit | edit source]

The social development of teenagers is also significant. During this time, teenagers often seek to establish their own identity and may experiment with different roles, activities, and behaviors. This is also a time when peer relationships become particularly important, often superseding relationships with parents and other family members in terms of influence.

Challenges[edit | edit source]

Teenagers face a number of challenges during their teenage years. These can include academic pressures, social pressures, and the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty. Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can also be a significant challenge for some teenagers.

See also[edit | edit source]

Teenager Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD