Chapter 6: Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change
Between about 10 and 19 years, our bodies, feelings and friendships change fast. In this chapter we learn what changes come with adolescence and why, clear away myths about menstruation, see how hormones and emotions shape behaviour, and find simple habits (good food, hygiene, exercise, safe online life and saying NO to harmful substances) that make these years happy and healthy.
In this chapter you will
- describe the physical changes of adolescence
- explain puberty, menstruation and hormones
- handle emotional changes positively
- choose healthy food, hygiene and safe online habits, and say NO to addiction
Topics
- Growing With Age: The Teenage Years NCERT 6.1
Adolescence (about 10–19 years) brings fast growth and changes in voice, hair, skin and body shape.
- Changes that Indicate Reproductive Capability NCERT 6.2
Internal changes prepare the body for reproduction; in girls the menstrual cycle begins.
- Emotional and Behavioural Changes NCERT 6.3
Mood swings and strong emotions are normal; hobbies, sport and helping others channel them well.
- Making Adolescence a Joyful Experience NCERT 6.4–6.5
Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium and iron; keep clean and exercise daily.
Key words
- Adolescence
- the stage between childhood and adulthood, about 10–19 years
- Puberty
- when the body changes to become able to reproduce
- Secondary sexual characteristics
- features like voice change or facial hair not directly used in reproduction
- Adam's apple
- the bump made by the growing voice box
- Menstruation
- the few days of bleeding in the monthly cycle
- Hormones
- chemicals that control growth and development
- Addiction
- a strong urge to keep using a harmful substance
Summary
- Adolescence (10–19 years) brings growth spurts, voice change, body hair and acne; timing differs and that is normal.
- The menstrual cycle begins in girls; menstruation is natural and myths about it are unscientific.
- Hormones drive the changes and affect mood; emotions can be channelled positively.
- Good nutrition, hygiene, exercise, safe online habits and saying NO to substances keep teenagers healthy.