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Adolescence is the term we use to describe the period between childhood and adulthood. This transitional period is generally considered to last from age 13 to 19 although theories may vary a few years on either side of this range. Adolescence is often a time of psychological turmoil as rapid changes in the body, social environment, and personal identity can be difficult to integrate for the growing young person. Physical changes include rapid growth, development of secondary sex characteristics and increase in sex hormones Social changes include increased expectations to behave as an adult, aggressiveness, and peer pressure to conform and fit in. Personality theorists, notably Erik Erikson and his followers, feel that the most important psychological task of the adolescent is to integrate the various aspects of their rapidly changing selves into a coherent identity. If they are unable to successfully accomplish this integration they risk becoming fragmented and confused about who they are and how they should behave at any given time. Adolescents are subject to the same disorders as adults but are especially at risk for depression, eating disorders, substance abuse and suicide.
Further Information on Adolecence: Planet Psych Links: Diagnosis: Disorders of Childhood and Adolesence Topics: Child Development Study Shows Strong Relationship Between Adolescent Behavior Problems and Alcohol Use World Wide Web Links: The Top 10 Ways to Keep Peace with your Teen
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