DL - Adolescence and Adulthood Lesson
Learning Targets:
- Describe the period of adolescence and discuss the impact of physical changes on the development of teenagers.
- Identify and explain the physical transformations during middle and late adulthood.
Courtesy of the AP psychology course and exam description, effective fall 2024. (n.d.). Links to an external site.
Adolescent Development
Adolescence marks the transition from childhood to adulthood. It is full of initiation rites, and the timing varies by the individual, but it usually starts around 11 or 12 years of age. Physical, social, and cognitive changes occur during adolescence as we move toward more independent adult responsibilities.
Physical Characteristics of Adolescent Development
Adolescence is a period during which individuals experience significant physical changes as they transition from childhood to adulthood. One of the main physical milestones during this period is the adolescent growth spurt, which involves a rapid increase in height and weight. Changes in body composition, muscle development, and bone growth often accompany this growth spurt.
Another important milestone in adolescent development is puberty, which is the process through which reproductive ability develops. During puberty, adolescents experience the development of primary and secondary sex characteristics. Primary sex characteristics include the reproductive organs, such as menarche in females (the onset of menstruation) and spermarche in males (the production of sperm). Secondary sex characteristics refer to the physical traits that distinguish males and females, such as changes in voice pitch, facial hair growth, and breast development. These physical changes are a normal part of adolescent development as individuals progress through this transformative stage of life.
Understanding the Teenage Brain
During adolescence, the teenage brain undergoes significant changes as it continues to develop. One key aspect of this development is the selective pruning of unused neurons and connections, which helps streamline and optimize brain function. As teens mature, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and impulse control, experiences growth and refinement. This growth is facilitated by developing myelin, a fatty tissue that enhances communication between different brain regions. For example, as the prefrontal cortex matures, teenagers may exhibit improved judgment, impulse control, and long-term planning abilities. However, it is essential to note that the maturation of the prefrontal cortex occurs at a slower pace than that of the emotional limbic system, which can sometimes result in impulsive behavior and emotional fluctuations during adolescence.
Understanding Social Development in Adolescents
Adolescents gradually rely more on peer relationships as they age. As adolescents interact with peers, they demonstrate egocentrism, which is often showcased through the imaginary audience and the personal fable. The imaginary audience is the belief that others constantly judge and observe them, leading to self-consciousness and self-evaluation. On the other hand, the personal fable involves a sense of uniqueness and invincibility, where adolescents believe their experiences are unique and immune to harm or consequences. These aspects of social development greatly impact how adolescents perceive themselves and navigate their social interactions, influencing their behavior and mental processes.
Physical Development in Adulthood
Understanding Physical Changes in Adulthood
Adulthood marks a significant period of physical development across the lifespan. During this time, individuals typically experience a plateau and eventual decline in various physical abilities. For instance, adults may notice changes in reproductive function, with women experiencing menopause. Additionally, there may be alterations in mobility, flexibility, reaction time, and sensory acuity in both the visual and auditory domains. These changes in physical development during adulthood can affect an individual's behavior and mental processes. For example, reduced mobility and sensory acuity may impact an individual's engagement in physical activities and overall perception of the environment, ultimately influencing their behavior and cognitive functioning. Understanding these physical changes is essential for comprehending the complexities of human behavior and mental processes throughout adulthood.
Life Expectancy
Life expectancy, the average number of years a person can expect to live, has significantly improved. This improvement is evident in that from 1950 to 2015, the life expectancy at birth increased from 50 to 73 years. As the older adult population grows, there is a rising demand for services like hearing aids, retirement villages, and nursing homes. Today, 13% of the global population is 60 or older, emphasizing the need to address the needs of this demographic. Throughout life, males tend to have a higher mortality rate than females. Very few individuals reach the age of 100 due to the natural aging process and susceptibility to diseases. Factors such as chronic stress, depression, and poor health habits can contribute to premature death, while a positive outlook and healthy lifestyle choices can promote longevity and well-being.
Understanding the Aging Brain
As we age, our brain undergoes various changes that can impact our cognitive functions. Up until our teenage years, our brain processes information at a faster rate. However, it may take longer to react, solve puzzles, and recall names as we age. Brain regions crucial for memory start to shrink with age, leading to memory difficulties. Additionally, the blood-brain barrier weakens, particularly in the hippocampus, contributing to cognitive decline. For example, imagine trying to remember a friend's name but finding it more challenging than before; this could be due to the changes happening in your aging brain.
The Benefits of Exercise on Aging
Exercise is crucial for maintaining cognitive function and overall brain health as we age. Research shows that individuals who engage in regular physical activity and minimize sedentary behavior experience enhanced mental agility in midlife and beyond. Furthermore, physical exercise has been linked to a slower progression of Alzheimer's disease. Exercising is believed to promote the growth of new brain cells and strengthen neural connections due to the improved circulation of oxygen and nutrients in the brain. In older adults, consistent exercise has been shown to reduce brain shrinkage and support the vitality of brain cells, ultimately contributing to a healthier aging process.
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