Department:

applied psychology
SABJECT:
DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY

TOPIC:
Adolescence

SUBMITTED BY:
SHEENA HAROON, FATIMA YOUSIF AND
SAHRASH ZULFIQAR ALI

SUBMIITED TO:
MAM MISBAH MUBEEN

ROLL NO:
251,252,260

Semester :
5th
Physical development
Adolescence – Physical Development:
Adolescence is the stage between childhood and adulthood,
usually from around 11 to 19 years of age. During this time, the
body goes through many physical changes — this process is
called puberty.
Main Features of Physical Development in Adolescence:
1. Puberty Begins
Puberty is the time when a child's body starts changing into an
adult body. It is controlled by hormones (special chemicals in
the body).
 For girls: Puberty usually starts between ages 10 to 14
 For boys: Puberty usually starts between ages 12 to 16
2. Growth Spurt
Adolescents grow taller and heavier very quickly.
Example:
A boy may grow 6 inches in one year. A girl may notice her
body becoming more curved.
3. Development of Primary Sexual Characteristics
These are body parts related to reproduction (having babies).
 Girls: Start menstruation (periods), development of ovaries and
uterus
 Boys: Testes and penis grow, production of sperm starts
4. Development of Secondary Sexual Characteristics
These are other body changes that are not directly linked to
reproduction.
Example: A teenage boy may notice his voice "cracks" as it gets
deeper. A girl may start wearing a bra as her chest develops.
5. Brain and Nervous System Changes
 The brain continues to develop, especially the part that
controls decision making and emotions.
 Teenagers may feel moody, emotional, or confused at times.
Important Points to Remember:
 Changes happen at different times for different people — and
that’s normal.
 These changes can affect a teen’s self-image and confidence. 
Support from parents, teachers, and friends is important during
this stage.
Emotional development
Adolescence – Emotional Development Adolescence (ages 11
to 19) is not only a time of physical change but also a time of
strong emotional development. Teenagers experience many new
and intense feelings during this period.
Main Features of Emotional Development in Adolescence:
1. Mood Swings
Adolescents often go through quick changes in mood — feeling
happy one moment and sad the next.
 This happens because of hormonal changes and brain
development.
Example:
A teen might laugh with friends but suddenly feel irritated at
home without knowing why.
2. Identity Formation
Teens begin to ask questions like: "Who am I?" or "What do I
want to become?"
 They try to understand themselves and form their own identity.
 They may copy others (like celebrities or friends) or try new
styles to figure out who they are.
Example:
A teenager might change hairstyles or clothing often while
exploring their personality
. 3. Increased Sensitivity
Adolescents often become more sensitive to what others say or
think about them.
 They may feel hurt or embarrassed easily.
 They care more about their appearance and peer opinions.
Example:
A teen may get upset if someone teases them about their looks
or clothes.
4. Need for Independence
Teens start wanting more freedom and may not want to be
treated like children.
 They want to make their own choices.
 They may sometimes argue with parents or teachers.
Example:
A teen may want to decide what to wear or where to go without
asking for permission.
5. Peer Attachment
Friends become very important during adolescence.
 Teens look for support, acceptance, and belonging from their
peer group.
 Sometimes, they may feel pressure to fit in or behave like
others.
Example:
A teen may start using slang, trying smoking, or joining a group
to feel accepted.
6. Crushes and Romantic Feelings
Teens may start developing crushes or romantic interests.
 These feelings are new and may confuse or excite them.
 They learn how to handle relationships and emotions.
Example:
A teenager might feel nervous or excited when talking to
someone they like.
Conclusion:
Emotional development in adolescence is normal and part of
growing up. It helps teens understand themselves and others.
They need guidance, love, and patience from parents, teachers,
and adults to manage these new feelings in a healthy way.
Identity formation in adolescence
Identity formation means developing a clear sense of “who I
am.” It is one of the most important parts of emotional and
social development during adolescence (ages 11 to 19).
At this age, teenagers begin to think deeply about their:
 Personality
 Beliefs and values
 Goals in life
 Career choices
 Gender roles
 Culture and religion
 Appearance and style
Why Identity Formation is Important in Adolescence
During childhood, identity is mostly shaped by family. But in
adolescence, teens want to discover their own identity —
separate from parents. They ask questions like:
 "What kind of person am I?"
 "What do I believe in?"
 "What do I want to become?"
Erik Erikson’s Theory – Identity vs Role Confusion
Psychologist Erik Erikson explained that adolescents go through
a stage called: "Identity vs Role Confusion"
 If they successfully build their identity, they feel confident
and know who they are.
 If they fail, they feel confused, lost, and may copy others
without understanding themselves.
How Do Teens Form Their Identity?
1. Trying New Roles and Experiences
Teens explore different styles, hobbies, or friend groups.
Example:
A teen might join sports one year, music the next — to see what
suits them best.
2. Peer Influence
Friends help teens shape their likes, dislikes, and opinions.
Example:
If a teen’s friends are artistic, they may also get interested in
painting or drama.
3. Family and Culture Values from parents, religion, and
culture guide identity, even if teens question or test them.
Example:
A teen may question religious practices but still feel connected
to cultural traditions.
4. Social Media and Role Models
Teens often follow celebrities, influencers, or leaders to shape
their interests and goals.
Example:
A teen may want to become a doctor after watching inspiring
stories on YouTube.
5. Thinking about the Future
Teens start choosing careers and life goals.
Example:
A teenager who loves animals might decide to become a vet.
Conclusion:
Identity formation helps teenagers understand who they are and
where they are going in life. It is a time of self-discovery,
learning, and growth. Support from family, teachers, and friends
is important to help teens build a strong, healthy identity.
Cognitive development in adolescence with reference to
Piaget’s theory
Cognitive Development in Adolescence (According to Piaget’s
Theory) Cognitive development means how thinking,
understanding, and problem solving improve as a person grows.
According to Jean Piaget, a famous developmental psychologist,
adolescents move into the final stage of cognitive development
called the: Formal Operational Stage Age:
Around 11 years and older (includes adolescence)
Key Features of Formal Operational Stage:
1. Abstract Thinking
Teens can think about things that are not directly seen or
experienced. They can think about ideas, values, and
possibilities.
Example:
A teenager can think about justice, love, or freedom, even if they
have not experienced them directly.
2. Hypothetical Thinking They can imagine different situations
and ask “what if” questions.
Example: “What if the world had no gravity?” or “What would
happen if I failed the test?”
3. Logical Reasoning
Teens begin to use logic in solving problems. They can plan
ahead and make better decisions.
Example:
A teen can plan a study schedule by logically thinking about
how much time they need for each subject.
4. Problem-Solving in a Scientific Way
They use step-by-step thinking, like scientists. They can test
ideas, make guesses (hypotheses), and draw conclusions.
Example:
In science class, a student can design an experiment to test
which soil is best for plant growth.
5. Egocentrism in Thinking (in a new way)
Adolescents may still be self-focused, believing that everyone is
watching them or thinking about them — this is called
"adolescent egocentrism."
Examples:
 Imaginary Audience: “Everyone will notice my pimple!”
 Personal Fable: “No one understands me” or “Nothing bad
can happen to me.”
Conclusion:
According to Piaget, adolescents enter the formal operational
stage, where they develop advanced thinking abilities. They
become capable of abstract, logical, and hypothetical thinking,
which helps them in academics and life decisions. However,
they may still be emotionally sensitive and feel like the center of
attention.
Social development
Social Development in Adolescence
Adolescence (ages 11 to 19) is a time when teenagers experience
many social changes. They move from depending mostly on
family to building stronger relationships outside the home,
especially with friends and peer groups.
Main Features of Social Development in Adolescence
1. Peer Relationships Become Very Important
 Teenagers spend more time with friends than with family.
 They look for acceptance, belonging, and approval from their
peer group.
Example:
A teenager may wear certain clothes or use trendy slang to fit in
with their friends.
2. Desire for Independence
 Teens want to make their own choices and not be treated like
little kids.
 They may challenge parents' rules and want privacy.
Example:
A teenager may want to go out alone, choose their own friends,
or decide their career path.
3. Identity Development through Social Interaction
 Teens try different roles, hobbies, or behaviors to discover
“who they are.”
 Social interaction helps shape their values and beliefs.
Example:
A teen may join a music club to see if they enjoy performing or
feel connected to artistic people.
4. Influence of Peer Pressure 
Teens may feel pressured to act a certain way to be accepted by
their group.
 This can lead to both positive and negative behavior. Positive
Example:
A group of friends encourages each other to study for exams.
Negative Example:
A teen tries smoking because their friends do it.
5. Development of Intimate and Romantic Relationships
 Teenagers may start having crushes, dating, or building close
emotional bonds.
 They learn how to manage feelings, respect boundaries, and
understand relationships.
Example:
A teen may feel nervous about asking someone out, or may talk
about relationships with friends.
6. Improved Social Skills and Empathy
 Teens become better at understanding others’ feelings,
showing empathy, and solving conflicts.
 They learn to respect differences in opinion, culture, or beliefs.
Example:
A teen may support a friend who is feeling sad or help solve a
disagreement peacefully
Conclusion:
Social development in adolescence is about learning to connect
with others, build relationships, and become more independent
and confident. Support from family, teachers, and healthy
friendships is important to help teenagers grow into kind,
responsible adults.
Problems and disturbances in adolescence
Adolescence (ages 11 to 19) is a time of big physical,
emotional, and social changes. Because of these changes,
teenagers often face different kinds of problems and
disturbances. These can affect their mental health, behavior,
studies, and relationships.
Common Problems and Disturbances in Adolescence
1. Identity Confusion
Teenagers are trying to find out "Who am I?" They may feel
confused about their values, goals, or personality.
Example:
A teen may change their clothing style, friend group, or hobbies
often, feeling unsure about what suits them.
2. Mood Swings and Emotional Issues
Because of hormonal changes, teens may experience rapid
mood changes, anxiety, or even depression.
Example:
A teenager might feel very happy one day and very sad or
irritated the next, without a clear reason.
3. Peer Pressure
Teens may feel forced to do things just to be accepted by their
friends — even if they know it's wrong.
Example:
A teen may try smoking or skipping school because their friends
are doing it.
4. Academic Stress
School pressure, exams, and choosing a future career can cause
mental stress and pressure.
Example:
A student may feel anxious or lose sleep before important
exams.
5. Conflict with Parents or Teachers
Teens want more freedom, but adults often set rules. This can
lead to arguments and misunderstanding.
Example:
A teen may get angry if their parents do not allow them to attend
a party or use a mobile phone.
6. Low Self-Esteem and Body Image Issues
Teens become very conscious about how they look and what
others think of them.
Example:
A girl may feel unhappy with her weight, or a boy may feel
insecure if he is shorter than his friends.
7. Risky Behaviors
Some adolescents may try dangerous or unhealthy activities due
to curiosity or pressure.
Examples:
 Using drugs or alcohol
  Speeding on bikes
 Running away from home
8. Social Media and Internet Addiction
Spending too much time online can lead to isolation,
cyberbullying, or poor academic performance.
Example:
A teen may stay up late scrolling on social media and then feel
tired and unfocused in school.
Conclusion:
Adolescents face many emotional and social challenges during
this period of life. These problems are common, but with
support from parents, teachers, and counselors, teens can
overcome them and grow into healthy and confident adults.