Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, typically marked by physical growth, cognitive development, and social changes.
This is the stage during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction. It's like when flowers bloom in springtime; they're ready to reproduce.
This refers to the process through which individuals develop distinct personalities and sense of self. It's like an artist painting a self-portrait; they decide what features to highlight or downplay based on their own perception.
This term describes how peers can impact an individualโs attitudes, behaviors, and experiences during adolescence. It's similar to how trends spread among friends; if one person starts wearing a new style of clothing or using new slang words, others often follow suit.