Growing Up & Adolescence Flashcards
Why has adolescence been moved forward over years
An increase in obesity and better nutrition
When is the beginning of adolescence
At puberty
What is the Menarche
A woman’s first period
What happens during brain development
Synaptic pruning becomes more efficient
There is a decrease in grey matter which is used in muscle control, senses and speech
There is an increase in white matter which controls body temperature heart rate and hormone released
The brain becomes reorganised and more specialised and efficient
The prefrontal cortex continues to develop into the 20s
The limbic system develops
What is the pre-frontal cortex involved in
Problem-solving, managing emotions, responsibility, planning
What does grey matter in the brain controls
Muscles, senses, speech
What does white matter in the brain control
Body temperature, heart rate, hormone release
Which system either the prefrontal cortex or the limbic system develops earlier
The limbic system
When is sexual maturation
Approximately between 11 and 14
What’s involved in sexual maturation
Increase in height, weight, pubic and underarm hair growth, increase in sleep and production of oils
What are the eating problems that developed during adolescence
1% anorexic, 1 to 3% bulimic
Nutritionally 3/4 are not eating healthy servings of fruit and veg
overweight
Adolescent egocentrism
Adolescents are preoccupied by what others think of themselves, They have a drop in self-esteem, I need for privacy whilst a strive for company and they believe that their beliefs are unique to themselves
Psychosocial development
They are forging an identity but they often have role confusion
What is the impact of peers
Gender identity intensifies, more time with friends and less parental influence, romantic relationships, helps well-being as they can share fears and secrets however group conformity and risk taking behaviour can happen
Causes of bad decisions
Immaturity a pre-frontal cortex and peer pressure
