Shalu told her friend, 'Adolescence brings only physical changes, like growing taller or developing body hair.' Is she correct? What would you change in this description of adolescence?
No, Shalu is not correct. Adolescence brings not only physical changes but also emotional and behavioural changes.
The description should be changed to include physical changes like increase in height, changes in body structure, weight gain, changes in voice, appearance of hair in different body parts, and emergence of pimples.
Emotional changes include mood swings, stronger emotions, and increased sensitivity.
Behavioural changes involve heightened curiosity, developing deeper interest in new areas, and changes in social interactions.
Adolescence is marked by significant physical, biological, and emotional changes.
Explanation
Section 6.3 'Emotional and Behavioural Changes in Adolescents' explicitly states that adolescence is not just about physical changes but also about emotional and behavioural changes. Table 6.2 lists mood swings and strong emotions as key emotional changes. The 'In a Nutshell' section summarizes that adolescence is marked by significant and characteristic physical, biological, and emotional changes.
Solution Steps
Shalu is incorrect — adolescence involves more than just physical changes
Physical changes include: increase in height, body structure changes, weight gain, voice changes, body hair appearance, and pimples
Emotional changes include: mood swings, stronger emotions, and increased sensitivity
Behavioural changes include: heightened curiosity, deeper interests in new areas, and changes in social interactions
Adolescence encompasses physical, biological, and emotional changes