ADOLESCENCE FACT SHEET

Physical Developmental Milestones

During the adolescence years, 11-18 years old, children are transitioning into adulthood. Children
undergo puberty and increased growth spurts. They have an increase in strength, speed and endurance.
Boys increase at a faster pace than girls. They experience body hair growth, girls begin to grow breast
and menstruate. For boys they also experience body changes. Their voices begin to get deeper, their
heart and lungs enlarge, and they begin to develop muscles. (Berk, 2013, Chapter 5, Page 180).
Language Developmental Milestones
Adolescence have a more complex knowledge of complex syntax and adapt their conversations for their
audience. Their oral and written skills increase.
Cognitive Developmental Milestones
During this stage adolescence begin to think abstractly and idealistically. Their mental state is focused on
adulthood and higher education. They think hypothetically as well as logically, but decisions are affected
by their emotions. Teens seek to be more independent and begin romantic relationships.

One sign that may signal atypical development during this period of development could be difficulty in
organizing information. The teen could see a specialist to help with information processing.
One strategy that families can use to influence their childrens learning and development during this
period of development is to increase conversations. It is critical for parents to be involved in their child's
life. Teens are influenced by peers and could be influenced by alcohol and drug users.

Reference: Berk, L. E. (2013).Child development. (9th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Developmental Milestones Typical Development

Physical
Girls Breasts begin to
bud (8-13)
Boys Testes begin to
enlarge (9 -13 )

Cognitive
Think hypothetically:
calculate
consequences of
thoughts
and actions without
experiencing them;
consider
a number of
possibilities and
plan behavior
accordingly

Social-Emotional
friendships based
on loyalty,
understanding,
trust; self-revelation
is first step towards
intimacy; conscious
choices about
adults to trust;
respect honesty &
straightforwardness
from adults; may
become sexually
active

Language
Continues to refine complex
grammatical structures

Girls - Peak weight

spurt (10-13 )
Boys Peak strength
spurt (13-17)

Insight, perspective
taking:
understand and
consider
others
perspectives, and
perspectives of
social
systems

Morality: golden rule;

conformity with law
is necessary for
good of society

Ability to communicate clearly and

in accord with social expectations
in diverse situations improves

Reasoning
Highly
reflective
moral
judgments
that grapple
with
existential
issues
appear
among a few
individuals,
usually with
advanced
education
Relationship
between
moral
reasoning
and behavior
strenghtens

Atypical Patterns
Act Early by Talking to Your Childs Doctor if Your Child:
1.
2.

Shows increased and uncontrollable anger.

Exhibits increased moodiness and lack of sleep.

Social Influences Teenagers can become more sexually curious and active and can be influenced by
the media and friends to be sexually active.
Cultural Influences Some cultures celebrates maturity at certain ages during this stage.