Child Development
In youths aged 13 to 14, the following changes are happening:
- Emotional: Anxious about their development and whether they are “normal” or not, Easily angered and take longer to recover than when younger. May exhibit erratic behavior and are identifying more readily with behaviors inherent to sex roles.
- Intellectual: Interests are fluctuating, are displaying varying levels of skills, and are capable of evaluating situations critically. They are assuming greater personal responsibility for learning and like to discuss their experiences with adults.
- Physical: A new period of brain growth is approaching. Have difficulty accepting body changes and are experiencing uneven bone and muscle growth. They are extremely restless and need a daily release of energy. They tire easily and are reluctant to admit it.
- Social: Exhibit indifference to adults – especially parents and teachers. Are concerned with positive regard within peer group and will strive to achieve peer acceptance. They are continuously changing friends depending on peer pressure and changing interests.
