Indicators of normal and abnormal physical, cognitive, emotional and sexual development

Question 1

Infants and Toddlers (Age 0–3) - Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 1

Physical — grows at a rapid rate, especially brain size
Mental — learns through senses, exploring, playing, communicates by crying, babbling, then “baby talk,” simple sentences
Social–emotional — seeks to build trust in others, dependent, beginning to develop a sense of self

Question 2

Young Children (Age 4–6) - Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 2

Physical — grows at a slower rate; improving motor skills; dresses self, toilet trained
Mental — begins to use symbols; improving memory; vivid imagination, fears; likes stories
Social–Emotional — identifies with parent(s); becomes more independent; sensitive to others’ feelings

Question 3

Older Children (Age 7–12) -Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 3

Physical — grows slowly until a “spurt” at puberty
Mental — understands cause and effect, can read, write, do math; active, eager learner
Social–Emotional — develops greater sense of self; focuses on school activities, negotiates for greater independence

Question 4

Adolescents (Age 13–17)- Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 4

hysical — grows in spurts; matures physically; able to reproduce
Mental — becomes an abstract thinker (goes beyond simple solutions, can consider many options, etc.); chooses own values
Social–Emotional — develops own identity; builds close relationships; tries to balance peer group with family interests; concerned about appearances, challenges authority

Question 5

Young Adults (Age 18–35) - Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 5

Physical — reaches physical and sexual maturity, nutritional needs are for maintenance, not growth
Mental — acquires new skills, information; uses these to solve problems
Social–Emotional — Seeks closeness with others; sets career goals; chooses lifestyle, community; starts own family

Question 6

Middle Age Adults (Age 36–64) -Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 6

Physical — begins to age; experiences menopause (women); may develop chronic health problems
Mental — uses life experiences to learn, create, solve problems
Social–Emotional — hopes to contribute to future generations; stays productive, avoids feeling “stuck” in life; balances dreams with reality; plans retirement; may care for children and parents

Question 7

Older Adults (Age 65–79) - Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 7

Physical — ages gradually; natural decline in some physical abilities, senses
Mental — continues to be an active learner, thinker; memory skills may start to decline
Social–Emotional — takes on new roles (grandparent, widow or widower, etc.); balances independence, dependence; reviews life

Question 8

Elders (Age 80 and Older) - Healthy Growth and Development

Answer 8

Physical — continues to decline in physical abilities; at increasing risk for chronic illness, major health problems
Mental — continues to learn; memory skills and/or speed of learning may decline; confusion often signals illness or medication problem
Social–Emotional — accepts end of life and personal losses; lives as independently as possible