Understanding Adolescent Development
M I L E S T O N E S
Ages and Stages of
Adolescence
Adolescent development is commonly divided into four distinct biological and social phases.
01
Pre-adolescent11–13 Years
The main features of the preadolescent phase are the onset of biological puberty and an increased interest in peer relationships and teenage pursuits.
02
Early adolescence13–15 Years
Relationships with close friends become more important than family relationships. During this time, teens often struggle with their body changes, mood swings and social issues. Physical appearance becomes very important during this time. It is also common for early adolescents to show acting-out behaviors.
03
Mid-adolescence15–17 Years
The establishment of a separate sexual and social identity occurs during mid- adolescence, when the individual explores and develops their own gender and sexual role. The development of social relationships outside the family enables the individual to have their own social network, as well as altering the basis of their relationship with their parents. Teens passing through this stage may feel invincible and start to engage in risky behaviors such as smoking and alcohol use. Conflict with parental authority is common at this time.
04
Late adolescence18 Years Onwards
Late adolescence is focused on the career or work choice along with the expression of the sexual role through more satisfying and enduring relationships.
ADOLESCENT BENCHMARKSEssential Developmental Tasks
Adolescents need to accomplish several developmental tasks for optimal physical and mental health, just like younger children. These milestones outline the psychological, emotional and social parameters of early adulthood transition.
1
Body Image
Accepting one's physical body
2
Social connections
Achieving meaningful relationships with peers
3
Self-Concept
Formation of personal identity, including social roles
4
Autonomy
Achieving emotional independence from parents
5
Vocational choice
Preparing for economic self-sufficiency
6
Family
Preparing for marriage and family life
7
Responsibility
Desiring and achieving socially responsible behaviour
8
Ethics
Acquiring an ethical system
SUPPORTING THE TRANSITION
Fostering Healthy Dialogue &
Personal Care Habits
By understanding these challenges, healthcare providers, parents, and caregivers can better support adolescents as they grow and facilitate healthier transitions into adulthood.
Preventative healthcare habits established during adolescence, such as attention to personal hygiene and skin care, as well as attainment and maintenance of a healthy body size, can last a lifetime.
Learn how to navigate the adolescent years, including how to foster healthy conversations with your adolescent about peer pressure, body self-image, rape and substance abuse.