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9: Physical and Cognitive Development in Adolescence (Ages 12 to 18)
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9.0: What Does Psychology Say?
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The text discusses the significant changes in both body and mind that occur during adolescence, illustrated by the daily routine of a fourteen-year-old named Miguel. His experiences include oversleeping, arguing with a teacher, socializing with friends, and juggling school and extracurricular activities.
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9.1: Physical Growth and Development in Adolescence
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The section on adolescence discusses physical development, brain development, and health-care needs during this critical growth period. It highlights physical milestones, such as changes in muscle mass and fat distribution, brain maturation, and factors influencing physical activity. Adolescents' nutritional requirements, sleep patterns, and the importance of preventive health care are addressed.
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9.2: Puberty, Sexual Behavior, and Sexual Health in Adolescence
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This page provides an in-depth exploration of various aspects related to puberty and adolescent sexual behavior. It includes an explanation of the physiological and psychological changes during puberty, factors influencing pubertal timing, and environmental influences. The section also offers statistics on adolescent sexual activity and examines the factors contributing to early sexual intercourse and its associated risks like unplanned pregnancies and STIs.
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9.3: Cognition in Adolescence
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This page discusses cognitive development in adolescence, focusing on Piaget's formal operational stage and the information processing perspective. Adolescents develop advanced reasoning, abstract thinking, and multidimensional problem-solving skills. They also experience idealism and egocentrism, affecting their social interactions and decision-making. Cultural, family, and educational influences play vital roles in shaping cognitive growth during this stage.
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9.4: Decision-Making and Risky Behaviors in Adolescence
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The page aims to help learners understand the complexities of adolescent decision-making, risk-taking, and reward-seeking behaviors, comparing them with adult behaviors. It delves into the brain regions involved and how they affect adolescents' perception of rewards and risks. The text highlights common risky behaviors seen in adolescents, such as substance use and unsafe driving, and explores social influences and neurological factors contributing to these behaviors.
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9.5: Key Terms
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9.6: Summary
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9.7: Review Questions
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9.8: Check Your Understanding Questions
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9.9: Personal Application Questions
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9.10: Essay Questions
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