You be the Developmental Psychologist
Julianne LoBianco
Liberty University
General Psychology
PSYC101
4/10/2023
In Adolescence (the developmental period that starts with puberty, marking the transition
from child to adult; Ages 12-14 would be early adolescence, ages 14-18 would be middle
adolescence, and then late adolescence would be 18-21.) Puberty being the beginning of this
stage in life means that during this time hormone changes, appetite changes, and rapid physical
growth will begin, and certainly affect the psychology of the individual. In Adolescence the
changes within the brain happen just as quickly, and with the same drastic effect as the physical
changes. In childhood that developmental period for the brain is mostly intended for the
growth/formation of new neural synapses, whereas adolescent brain development is centered
around synaptic pruning. Synaptic pruning is the process by which neural synapses that are no
longer needed are eliminated, this leads to more efficient specialized networks being established.
All of these changes that one goes through during adolescence can be very challenging,
confusing, and difficult to deal with. During early adolescence the beginning stages of puberty
take effect, many people in this age group (12-14) often struggle with emotional outbursts, or
they start to behave poorly in school. Their bodies and brains are changing so rapidly that they
don’t know how to emotionally regulate themselves during their transition into adulthood. In
middle adolescence, many begin to learn how to cope, and their hormones aren’t changing as
dramatically as they were in early adolescence, this makes way for late adolescence where many
are evened out for the most part. Many who still struggle with their emotions in late adolescence
benefit from therapy, ultimately they just need someone to listen. What they need to get to this
point however is stability and support above all else. If an individual is also in an unstable or
negative environment during this time of great change and instability within themselves, they are
more likely to suffer through their adolescence. Many going through adolescence benefit from
having someone to talk to; ultimately, the parent is the best option. Outside emotional outlets are
also beneficial; many take up sports during this period in life, which also helps with the physical
changes.
In conclusion, adolescence is a very difficult period in life for many people. Support and
stability are the biggest necessities during this time of change. Adolescents only become
functional adults if their adolescence is treated carefully.
Bibliography
al, George E. Introduction to Psychology from a Christian Worldview. Available from: Liberty
University Online Bookshelf, (2nd Edition). Kendall Hunt Publishing, 2023.
