Chapter 1 Personal Development 17
People achieve some developmental tasks as the body physically matures.
Achievement of these tasks usually occurs in a certain order. For instance,
children will learn to sit, crawl, walk, and run in that order. People achieve
other tasks as they learn proper standards of behavior. Learning how to get
along with friends is an example.
During adolescence, you can expect to experience four major types
of changes as you grow and develop. These include physical, intellectual,
emotional, and social changes. Physical changes occur as your body grows
and matures. Intellectual changes take place as you learn more about the
world around you. Emotional changes affect how you feel about situations
and how you express those feelings. Social changes occur as you meet more
people and learn how to get along with them. Each type of change will help
you achieve certain developmental tasks.
Physical Changes
Adolescence usually lasts
from about ages 11 to 17. During
this time, physical changes
involve not only the growth
of larger muscles, but also an
improved ability to use those
muscles. Your skill in sports and
other activities often improves.
Your eye-hand coordination
improves as the small muscles in
your fi ngers and hands develop.
Growth spurts, or rapid
periods of growth, often occur.
One month your clothes will fi t.
Developmental Tasks of Teens
Learn to accept changes in your body
Select and prepare for a career
Achieve emotional independence
Learn to get along with peers
Acquire a set of standards that guide your behavior
Learn what behavior will be expected in adult roles
Accept responsibility
Become more independent at home, school, and in the community
1-10 These developmental tasks are usually achieved during adolescence.
Health Connections
Growing out of Adolescence
The many physical changes that take place
during adolescence may make you feel different
from others and insecure at times. You may feel you
will never get through this period in your life. These
feelings are typical. Many people you know may feel
the same way from time to time. How you choose to
handle these changes is as important as what you are
feeling and seeing. Remember that physical changes
are a natural part of growing up. Learn to enjoy your
new physical strength and grace. Learn to like the
person you are and the one you are becoming.
Refl ect
Discuss
Research