Define Adolescence. Warm Up 3/5/14

Answer Adolescence – the period between the normal onset of puberty and the beginning of adulthood.

Growing Up Adolescence as a concept is not universal. Many societies do recognize this “in between” phase between childhood and adulthood. In these societies generally once you turn 13-14 and complete certain “rites” you enter adulthood.

Characteristics 5 Major characteristics define adolescence. 1) Biological growth (growth spurt) 2) Undefined status (still learning who you are) 3) Increased decision making. 4) Increased pressure. 5) Search for self.

Biological Growth Happens during puberty. The brain and endocrine system control this. Can cause anxiety or embarrassment.(especially with things like acne)

Undefined Status Adolescent expectations are often vague. Some people treat adolescents as adults others a children. Ex. In many states you can get married at 16 but can vote until 18. Ex2. You can enlist in the army at 18 but cannot drink alcohol until 21.

Increase Decision Making During adolescence many decisions about one’s future are made. Where to go to college, what sports to play, what career path etc.

Increased Pressure Parents make rules and expectations at home. Teachers expect students to complete assignments on time and well. Coaches expect them to practice their craft.

Search for Self Adolescence is the point in time where most people take on the status and role they want. Teens sort through their values and choose what/who they want to be. Anticipatory socialization occurs often. Anticipatory socialization is taking on the roles, values and obligations of a status to prepare one’s self to take over said status/role in the future.

Rites of Passage Ceremonies that mark the beginning or end of a stage of development.

Stages of Development: Infancy Childhood Adolescent Adulthood Old Age

Birth Rites or Infancy

Infancy – Christian Baptism

Infancy – Jewish Brit Milah (Circumcision)

Infancy – Ugandan Beer Ceremony

Infancy -Hindu Cleansing Ritual

Infancy – Bali Naming Ceremony

Passage into Childhood

Childhood – Hindu Shaving Rite

Childhood – Muslim Circumcision

Passage into adulthood

Adulthood - Australian males

Adulthood - Kenyan males

Adulthood - Vanuatu males

Adulthood - Senegalese males

Adulthood – US and Europe

Adulthood - Ethiopia females

Exit Slip What are the 5 characteristics of the Adolescence?