Changes During the Teen Years

Physical Changes The BODY Changes start around age 10-14 Caused by HORMONES which are chemicals in the body Adolescence is often called “puberty””

Physical changes GROWTH SPURT- Girls start to grow 1st Voice deepens Skin changes- more oily Acne (Temporary change) Increased sweat glands- leads to pimples & body odor Body hair Body shape changes: Males ‘V’ Females widen at the hips Get stronger- muscle growth Brain changes- chemically Need to eat HEALTHY & EXERCISE!! Able to do more activities

Coping with physical changes Keep skin clean- wash 2x a day! Eat healthier!! Give the body what it needs & wants! Move around! Throw, catch, run, ride, play, walk…… Mark your progress in height & weight Don’t criticize yourself! Everyone IS changing- it’s normal!

Mental Changes The way you think and learn The Human Brain

Intellectual Changes The way you think and learn Thinking changes from CONCRETE to ABSTRACT C= Childlike A= Adult like Learning more in a shorter time Able to face problems that are more complex. More of a vocabulary Better at decision-making Learn from history/past mistakes Better problem solver

Handling Academics Start good study habits NOW! School should be a top priority Develop friendly competition with classmates Take advantage of extra help Teachers like students!

Emotional change The way we feel All emotions are GOOD!! They are a reaction to events AND our thoughts Mood swings- severe & sudden changes in the way you feel New Feelings Toward Others- you may recognize that others around you have needs as well Hormones contribute to the power of emotions. Feeling of attraction toward others.

How are you feeling?

SOCIAL CHANGE Define these words: Peer: Acquaintance Friend Community Community Service: Volunteer work intended to help people in a particular area.

SOCIAL CHANGE Define these words: Peer Acquaintance Friend Community People in your age group. (Same demographic) Acquaintance A person one knows slightly, but who is not a close friend. Friend A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection. Community A group of people living in the same place.

Social change How you act around your peers: More time with peers! Make more friends Lose some friends Cliques may form More peer pressure Effects emotions How you act with your parents: Less time with them May not share as much information Need to gain trust More responsibilities at home You May Get involved in Community Service programs.