Developmental psychologyLesson 1 of 1 in the course Physical and Cognitive Development in Adolescence (Ages 12 to 18)

Adolescent Physical Growth, Activity, and Participation

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Adolescence brings rapid physical changes as the body develops toward adult size and form. Growth does not happen at the same pace for everyone, so understanding typical patterns and individual variation can help adolescents interpret changes without unnecessary worry.

Adolescence is the period of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional transition from childhood toward adulthood. Growth often occurs in spurts, but physical development generally follows an expected sequence. During rapid growth, some adolescents experience temporary aches or growing pains. Growth may also temporarily affect coordination: teens can feel awkward as they adapt their movements to changes in height, weight, and body proportions.

All flashcards

What is adolescence from a physical-development perspective?
It is a period of growth and development that transforms a child's body toward adult size and form, alongside cognitive, social, and emotional transitions.
Why might a growing adolescent feel awkward?
Rapid changes in height, weight, and body proportions can temporarily affect coordination as the adolescent adjusts movement.
What does individual variability in growth mean?
Adolescents differ in growth rates and patterns; genes, nutrition, environmental resources, and social context contribute to these differences.
Name three possible motivations for adolescent physical activity.
Motivations can include fun, challenge, competition, recognition, well-being, and spending time with others.
What can discourage adolescents from sports or exercise?
Barriers can include limited access or time, social anxiety, teasing, appearance concerns, lack of support, or activities that do not match a teen's interests.

Quiz questions

  1. Why can adolescents temporarily feel physically awkward during a growth spurt?Answer: Changing body size and proportions can require adjustments in movement and coordination.
  2. Which statement best describes differences in adolescent growth?Answer: Broad patterns occur, but individuals vary considerably in their growth and maturation.
  3. Which combination includes influences on adolescent physical growth?Answer: Inherited genes, nutrition, and environmental resources.
  4. A teen avoids sports after being teased about appearance. Which factor may be limiting participation?Answer: Social experiences and body-image concerns can discourage activity.
  5. Why are group-level physical differences poor predictors of one person's athletic performance?Answer: Performance depends on interacting factors such as training, experience, and activity demands.

Based on Lifespan Development by Diana Riser, Rose Spielman, David Biek (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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