Puberty can be a difficult time for adolescents. It can be a time of confusion because of what is going on with their bodies. Physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development are all a part of puberty. People should read up on this topic, it doesn't matter if you've been through it, are going through it, or haven't gone through it, it's good to know this information.
There are many people who are not informed, until they begin to go through it, about puberty. One of the first signs of puberty is physical.Females begin to show signs of puberty between the ages of 9-13; whereas, boys begin to show signs of puberty between the ages of 11-14. Some of the first, physical changes, in females, are usually breast development, changes in body and shape, and menstruation. Some of the first, physical changes, in males are growth of body and facial hair, the occurrence of erections and ejaculation, and their voices begin to deepen. .
The cognitive part of puberty is split in three parts: early adolescence, middle adolescence, and late adolescence. In early adolescence, the adolescent begins to questions authority and society standards. They, also, begin to form and verbalize their own thoughts and views on a variety of topics, such as, their parent's rules, what group they want to be in, and what physical and emotional features they find attractive. In middle adolescence, the adolescent begins to begins to develop his/her own identity, to think long-term, and questions or analyzes more extensively. In the final part, late adolescence, the adolescent begins to have increased thoughts about more global concepts. They may, also, debate and develop intolerance for opposing views.
The social and emotional part of puberty is often linked together. In the social part of puberty, the adolescent begins to seek more independence and responsibility. They, also, begin to look for new experiences. Begin to be influenced by friends and develop and explore a sexual identity.
