Me & My Body: Youth Page

What is Adolescence?

The word adolescence is used quite frequently to refer to young people who are going through their teenage years. Adolescence refers to a period of time in a young person's life between the ages of 10 and 19, where they start going through major physical, psychological and behavioral changes. In other words, adolescence is associated with changing social relationships, becoming more independent, developing an identity and going through the biological changes associated with puberty.

With all of the changes going on in the body and mind of an adolescent, it is no wonder that the time period can be a confusing one, where a number of questions and concerns can arise. Young people should have access to information about adolescence and the changes they will experience during development in order to be able to make smart, healthy choices about their body as they grow and mature.