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Chapter 4: Problem 4

What are the problems with defining the start and end of adolescence? Why do these problems exist?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The problems with defining the limits of adolescence stem from variances in biological development, psychological maturity, cultural differences, and legal considerations. These issues exist because human development is individualistic, and it is difficult to generalize the experience of adolescence.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding adolescence

Defining adolescence is a complex worry because it's a stage of transition where an individual is no longer a child but not yet an adult. This phase brings about significant physical, psychological, and social changes.
02

Biological considerations

From a biological standpoint, adolescence begins with the onset of puberty. However, variation exists as puberty begins at different ages for different individuals, leading to issues in defining a universal starting point.
03

Psychological and social considerations

Psychologically, adolescence is characterized by self-discovery, independence, and formation of personality, but the timing and nature of these changes differ largely from person to person. Socially, the definition of adolescence can vary with cultural norms and societal expectations
04

Legal considerations

Legally, adolescence might be determined by age but this does not consider individual maturity or the aforementioned biological and psychological factors.
05

Explaining the existence of these problems

These problems exist mainly due to the individualistic nature of human development. Each person matures at their own pace biologically, psychologically, and socially, making it difficult to generalize a specific period as adolescence.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Recall Information How does the influence of parents over their children change during adolescence?

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