Health / Unit 9: Growth, Development and Community Health
9.2 Emotional and Social Changes in Adolescence
Notes
The teen years bring changes in the brain, emotions and relationships.
- Hormones and a still-developing brain can cause mood swings and stronger emotions. The part of the brain for planning and impulse control keeps developing into the mid-20s.
- Teens often want more independence, care more about friends and think about identity ("Who am I?").
- Teens need more sleep (8-10 hours) but may feel awake later at night.
- Body image is how you see and feel about your body. Social media, media and peer comments can affect it. Bodies come in many healthy shapes and sizes.
- Healthy supports: talking with trusted adults, activities you enjoy, friends who accept you, and focusing on what your body can do.
- If worries about your body or feelings last or get in the way of daily life, talk to a trusted adult, school counselor or doctor.
Practice
Why might teens have stronger mood swings?
Hormones and brain development affect mood.
What is body image?
Body image is perception and feelings, not just measurements.
A teen feels bad about their body after looking at heavily edited photos on social media. Which response is most helpful?
Media literacy and support protect body image.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 9 test.