2. INTRODUCTION
• Adolescence is that part in our life where nothing seems to
go smoothly yet our best.
• Adolescence - stage of human development encompassing
the transition from childhood to adulthood.
• Adolescence is that period of life of an individual when
society no longer views him as a child but does not as yet
concede him either the roles or the functions inherent in
the status of adult.
• Most healthiest period of life & the most problematic.
• Puberty – biologic changes & sexual maturation during this
transition.
3. STAGES
Early adolescence – 10-13 years
-growth spurt & secondary sexual characters.
Mid adolescence - 14-16 years
-independence & identity, experimentation relationship
with peers and opposite sex.
Last adolescence - 17-19 years.
4. SPECIAL CHARACTERS
Rapid physical growth & development.
Physical, social & psychological development.
Sexual maturity & onset of sexual activity
Experimentation.
Transition from total socioeconomic dependence to
relative independence.
Onset of reproductive cycle.
Development of adult mental process & adult identity.
5. IMPORTANCE OF ADOLESCENT
HEALTH
Parents of next generation
Early menarche
Urbanisation, migration
Developing countries
Less family influence
Exposure to mass media
They are a demographic force
They are the future health
They are an economic force
They have a right to participate.
6. NEEDS OF ADOLESCENTS
Correct information, on health, reproduction, nutrition,
growth & development sexuality & HIV/AIDS, STDs/STI.
Adequate diet.
Healthy lifestyles
Education & health
Safe & supportive environment
Counseling.
7. COMMON PROBLEMS OF ADOLESCENCE
The adolescent is a problem-individual. There are many problems
around him and he needs help and guidance for their solution at every
step. The following problems are the most significant in this stage.
EXCESSIVE DAY- DREAMING
Day-dreaming is normal at this stage but when it grows to excessive it
may be injurious as far as development of personality is connected.
EMANCIPATION
It is the ambition for freedom from parental sovereign. The individual
hates control of the parents. He seeks identify himself.
ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE
This is another problems of economic independence. Money from
parents for personal expense is major problem.
8. EMOTIONAL TENSION
Emotional development is at maximum and unstable. Self respect and
personal pride make the individual emotionally bad. He expects the things to
be done as he aspires.
PHYCHOLOGICAL PROBLEMS
Ignorance about many basic facts leads to psychological problems like
misconception about sexual feelings, sex related issues.
Attraction towards opposite sex.
Guilt feeling about sex related issues.
SOCIAL
Intense closeness with brothers/sisters, friends.
Unrealistic social perceptions about violence, love, sex as influenced by
media.
Fear /imagination about married life, life partners.
EDUCATIONAL
Tensions of attending the classes, examinations and tests.
Low IQ feeling
Fear and concern about future career.
9. WORKER
Role of the social worker in solving problems and proper
physical, mental, emotional and social development of the
adolescent……….
By organizing various types of physical exercises, sports
and games.
By organizing various types of extracurricular activities.
It should be according to the ability and aptitude of the
pupils.
Excursions to various places may be organized.
The social worker should try to avoid frustration among the
adolescents.
10. CONCLUSION
This adolescent period is hazardous for adolescent health due to
absence of proper guidance and counselling.
Family has a crucial role in shaping the adolescents behaviour.
They have to ensure a safe, securer and supportive environment for
the adolescents.
Family members in the community to be informed and educated
about this problems.
Community leaders play a vital role on adolescent health care.
A positive and encouraging attitude has to be developed among the
family members and parents.
