Developmental Changes During the Adolescent Years
Adolescence is a time of great growth and change and is a significant period in your child’s life. As a parent, knowing about this stage of development can give you an understanding of what to expect during the teen years. This important stage of development requires positive and caring adults who support teens as they take care of certain tasks and begin their transition to adulthood.

The developmental changes that occur during this time will also affect how your child communicates with you and how he begins to see and develop relationships in general. Keep in mind that your child’s self-esteem may decline as he begins adolescence. You can help at this time by making sure they understand and are prepared for the changes their body and mind are going through.

Adolescents experience developmental changes in the following areas:

• Physical
• Emotional
• Cognitive
• Social and Psychological

Protective factors that enhance adolescent development include strong family love and support, positive family communication, a caring school environment, opportunities to provide service to others, clear rules and consequences for family and school, positive relationships between adults who are not parents, learning skills for life and decision making. create opportunities, constructive relationships with peers, and support and encouragement from parents and teachers to do well in school.

Because of the many changes that teens go through, even the best prepared teen can sometimes feel overwhelmed and alone. About one in five young people will experience depression, and girls report higher rates of depression than boys.

Feeling depressed is not the same as feeling stressed. Stress symptoms like tension, frustration, and worry tend to last only a few hours or a few days. Depression is more severe and lasts longer. Studies show that teens who have a close relationship with their parents are less likely to experience long-term depression. They are also more likely to discuss problems with their parents. If you have concerns and cannot reach your teen, contact the school counselor, family doctor, or mental health professionals.

Implementing protective factors in your teen’s life will provide them with safety nets and support them to bounce back from tough times. They are also essential in the development of positive mental health in adolescents.

This article is part of a ten-week series that will focus on the development and well-being of our teens. Working together to provide opportunities for young people to access their gifts and use their abilities are essential components of building resilience.