Adolescence: Physical, Psychosocial And Moral Development

Introduction

Adolescence is the development from childhood to adulthood. It describes the years between ages 13 to 19. Adolescent can be categorised into three stages which are early adolescence, middle adolescence and late adolescence. According to Western psychologists, "adolescence primarily as preparation for maturity and this period as a time of potential crisis brought on by the uncertainties of the social and physical transitions between life (Bucholtz, 2002). Puberty is the physical maturing that makes an individual capable of sexual reproduction, it is a significant period for adolescence. This essay will talk about the physical, cognitive, psychosocial and moral developmental stages growth of a 17 years old adolescent, B.H. The

Adolescence is an important stage for the development of the self-esteem. The changes in physical, cognitive, psychosocial and moral development could decrease self-esteem. During the stage of adolescence, nutritional deficiencies and poor eating habits is highly susceptible. This may cause some problems in life later on such as obesity, osteoporosis, hyperlipidemia, delays of sexual maturation, and also final adult height. The development of eating disorders is also prominent in this stage. Adolescence requires extra nutrients due to growth spurt. Therefore the client has to take a balanced meal and avoid drinks containing high sugar. A good oral hygiene is also important for adolescence. Therefore my client has to practise a good oral hygiene since she has braces. The adolescence with braces is encouraged the use of end-rounded bristle toothbrush for brushing braces and also have to visit dentist regularly for every six months. Family is also important in developing adolescence’s characters and personal traits. Family members have to support and guide adolescence in making their decisions. Client’s family members understand her and give her some personal

Some eating disorders are categorised as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating or overeating. Adolescence who suffering from overeating disorder are at a risk of high blood pressure, cholesterol and also suffer from heart attack. Healthy eating habits during adolescence stage is important because their nutritional and dietary needs are in a time of change. Adolescence becomes independent and making many food decisions on their own such as fast food which brings convenience to them. A lot adolescence experiences an increase in appetite and need healthy foods for their growth needs. The recommended immunization schedule is designed to protect infants and children early in life, when they are most vulnerable and before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. So the client, B.H. had taken all the immunizations that is compulsory in Singapore.

Reflection

I felt thankful because my client is actually a quiet person but she still willing to share her own stories with us. I also realised that actually everyone has their own unspeakable troubles. Besides, I also noticed that she knows her own identity from assessing her using the Erikson’s Theory. It was a fruitful experience for me.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adolescent has to go through several stages in their life before they know themselves better like what is stated in Erikson’s theory.