Biological change is a universal component of the experience of adolescence and has implications for biological as well as social and cognitive development. Biological changes can have both direct and indirect effects on adolescent development. For example, growth can spur changes in how adolescents are viewed and treated by their parents and peers as well as changes in how adolescents view and feel about themselves. Pubertal growth can move adolescents into new social roles - such as that of romantic partner.
Three aspects of biological development are explored: pubertal changes, nutrition, and the biological aspects of sexuality.
The following related links may also be of interest to you . . .
Estronaut:
A Forum for Women's Health-Exploring adolescence
By: GenneX Healthcare Technologies,Inc.
A site most relevant to adolescents who want to know more about their bodies
and development. Complete with information ranging from what to expect for a
first gynecological visit, to a discussion of nutrition, to "Ask Karen
Sarpolis, M.D." forum, this site covers many aspects of health issues concerning
female teens.
Sexuality
Education: Puberty in Boys
By: www.about.com with Denise Witmer
A general overview of puberty in boys with respect to many issues, such as body
changes, sperm, testicular cancer, and nocturnal emissions. Highlights important
vocabulary words for the adolescent male wishing to learn more about his body
and its functions.
Effects
of early onset brain injury on the development of cognition and behavior: Introduction
to the special issue.
By: Daniel Tranel and Paul J. Eslinger
Published in Developmental Neuropsychology, this article examines brain injuries
that occur early in an individual's development. There is some evidence that
suggests that the brain has a better chance of recovering if an accident occurs
earlier in life rather than later. In some cases, the brain is able to reorganize
itself, and some parts of the brain are able to compensate for other damaged
areas. A great paper for those interested in the scientific aspects of the brain!
Short-term
and long-term variability of standard deviation scores for size in children
By: A. Sheehy, T. Gasser, R. Largo, & L. Molinari
A great article that analyzes skeletal development in conjunction with body
mass index in children from age one month to 20 years old. It has been published
in the Annals of Human Biology and is an international study. Highly recommended
for readers who hope to gain a scientific perspective on this topic.
This site was produced by students taking HDFS 433: The Transition to Adulthood and HDFS 239: Adolescent Development at the Pennsylvania State University. Feedback can be sent to the individual authors or to Nancy Darling (darling@bard.edu).
Last updated 4/16/01.