Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change
Chapter Notes - Class 7 Science (Curiosity)
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Growing with Age: The Teenage Years
3. Changes that Indicate Reproductive Capability
4. Emotional and Behavioural Changes in Adolescents
5. The 'Why' Question for Adolescence
6. Points to Remember
7. Difficult Words and Their Meanings
1. Introduction
The life of a plant starts from a tiny seed. With proper care, it grows into a sapling and then a mature plant, which can produce flowers, fruits and new seeds. However, a plant needs time to grow before it can produce seeds again.
Similarly, animals and humans also grow and change before they can reproduce. Some animals lay eggs, while others give birth to young ones. These young ones grow slowly and develop over time.
In humans, life moves through different stages: infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age. Between the ages of 10 to 19, we go through adolescence, a time of rapid physical, emotional and behavioural changes. During this stage, the body gradually prepares for adulthood and reproductive maturity.
Let us explore the changes that happen during adolescence and learn how to handle them responsibly.
2. Growing with Age: The Teenage Years
What is Adolescence?
Adolescence is the transitional stage between childhood and adulthood. It usually begins around the age of 10 and continues until about the age of 19. It is characterised by rapid physical, emotional and behavioural changes as the body and mind develop towards adulthood.
Changes During Adolescence
As children grow into teenagers, their bodies and minds go through many physical and emotional changes. These changes are natural and occur at different times for different people. Some common changes are described below:
1. Increase in Height and Body Shape
Boys and girls may grow taller quickly during the adolescent growth spurt.
Boys may gain weight and develop broader shoulders and a wider chest.
Girls may notice breast development along with changes in height, weight and body structure.
The speed and extent of growth differ from one person to another.
2. Change in Voice
• In boys, the voice usually becomes deeper as the voice box grows. The visible bump on the throat is called the Adam's apple.
• Girls may also experience slight changes in the pitch or tone of their voices during adolescence.
3. Hair Growth
• Hair begins to grow in the armpits and the pubic area in both boys and girls.
• Boys may develop facial hair, such as a moustache or beard, and may sometimes develop hair on the chest or back.
• The amount and timing of hair growth vary from person to person.
4. Changes in Skin
• Many adolescents get pimples or acne because the skin becomes oilier during this time.
• Acne can occur when oil and dead skin cells block the pores. Good hygiene and, when needed, medical advice can help manage it.
A Key Point to Remember
• Everyone goes through these changes at their own pace.
• Some people may grow faster or slower than others, and this is completely normal.
• These changes are a natural part of growing up and becoming more independent.
Secondary Sexual Characteristics
Certain changes, such as voice deepening in boys, facial and chest hair growth in boys, and breast development in girls, are called secondary sexual characteristics. These characteristics commonly appear during puberty and help distinguish the usual physical features of males and females, but they are not directly involved in reproduction. They are signs that the body is undergoing puberty, the stage when it prepares for adulthood and reproductive capability.
Secondary sexual characteristics usually appear during puberty and continue to develop until adulthood.
They are caused by hormones produced during adolescence.
What is Puberty?
Puberty is the phase during adolescence when external and internal changes prepare the body for reproduction. It does not begin at exactly the same age for everyone. During puberty, the reproductive organs mature, secondary sexual characteristics appear and the body gradually develops the ability to reproduce.
3. Changes that Indicate Reproductive Capability
Adolescence brings not only visible changes such as an increase in height and a change in voice, but also important internal changes, especially those related to reproduction.
Menstrual Cycle in Girls
The menstrual cycle is a natural process in adolescent girls and is one sign of reproductive maturity.
• A menstrual cycle often occurs about every 28 to 30 days, but for adolescents, typical cycles can span from 21 to 45 days.
• The time during which blood flows out of the body is called menstruation, commonly referred to as a period. It commonly lasts for about 3 to 7 days.
Some girls may feel pain or discomfort in the lower belly, known as menstrual cramps, during this time.
• Menstruation is a normal and healthy sign of reproductive development.
• Menstruation naturally stops between about the ages of 45 to 55. This stage is called menopause.
Breaking Myths About Menstruation
Many wrong beliefs and taboos exist about periods in different communities. These beliefs are not scientifically correct.
• Some people believe that girls should stay isolated during menstruation. This is not correct.
Menstruation is natural and healthy; there is no need for shame or fear.
• Understanding periods with a scientific outlook supports women's health and helps remove unnecessary taboos.
4. Emotional and Behavioural Changes in Adolescents
Adolescence is not only a time of physical growth; it is also a time of strong emotions and changes in behaviour. These changes can feel exciting, confusing or overwhelming, but they are a normal part of growing up.
Let us understand some common emotional changes, how they affect behaviour and how to handle them positively.
Understanding and Managing Emotions
Adolescents often feel emotions more strongly than children, and mood swings are common.
These emotions can lead to new interests, such as helping others, joining clubs or exploring creative hobbies.
• By understanding your feelings and talking to trusted adults or friends, you can make thoughtful choices and respond in a healthy and balanced way.
Activities such as music, dance, sports, reading, writing and mindfulness can help manage stress and improve mood.
If sadness, worry, anger or stress continues for a long time or affects daily life, it is important to speak to a trusted adult, teacher, counsellor or doctor.
Making Adolescence a Joyful Experience
Adolescence is a special journey filled with curiosity, energy and new experiences. To make this stage happy and healthy, it is important to take care of both the body and the mind. Good habits, sensible choices, adequate sleep and a positive attitude can make a big difference.
Meeting Nutritional Needs
Adolescence requires a nutritious diet to support rapid growth and development. A balanced diet should include a variety of foods, sufficient water and foods from different food groups.
Nutrients Needed
• Proteins and carbohydrates: Proteins support growth and repair, while carbohydrates provide energy. They are found in foods such as milk, pulses, millets, eggs and curd.
• Calcium: Calcium supports bone growth and strength. It is found in milk, cheese, paneer and leafy green vegetables.
• Iron: Iron helps in the formation of healthy blood and helps prevent tiredness caused by iron deficiency. It is found in spinach, legumes, jaggery and dried fruits such as raisins.
• Fats, vitamins and minerals: These are needed in adequate amounts for overall health. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and oils should be included in balanced amounts.
• Health concerns: Adolescents, especially girls, may face iron or vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to weakness or anaemia. A balanced diet and timely medical advice help prevent and treat these problems.
Personal Hygiene
Along with healthy food, good personal hygiene is essential during adolescence.
Because the body goes through many changes, keeping the body clean is important.
• Clean the armpits and pubic area regularly and wear clean clothes to help prevent infections.
Bathing regularly, washing the hands and keeping the nails clean are also important hygiene practices.
Menstrual Hygiene for Girls
• Girls should take extra care of hygiene during menstruation (periods).
• Use sanitary pads or properly cleaned reusable cloth pads to stay clean and comfortable.
• Dispose of used pads properly by wrapping them in newspaper and putting them inside a dustbin.
Biodegradable sanitary pads are available and may be better for the environment when disposed of correctly.
Breaking the Stigma
Menstruation is natural and should not be a cause for shame. Society should:
Provide clean toilets and safe spaces in schools and public places.
Make sanitary products easily available and affordable.
• Talk openly about menstrual hygiene to support girls and women.
Government Initiatives for Menstrual Hygiene
• Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS): Under this Government of India scheme, sanitary pads are provided free of charge or at a reduced price to adolescent girls in rural areas, along with awareness programmes on menstrual hygiene and health.
• Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK): It aims to improve the overall health of adolescents, including menstrual health and hygiene, and encourages peer education.
• Suvidha Sanitary Napkin Initiative: Biodegradable sanitary pads are provided at affordable prices through Jan Aushadhi Kendras to improve access to menstrual hygiene products.
• State-Level Initiatives: Various state governments have their own programmes, such as the Shuchi Scheme in Karnataka and free sanitary napkin schemes in states such as Tamil Nadu and Odisha.
Physical Activities and Social Life
• Benefits: Regular exercise, games and sports keep the body and mind fit, build stamina and improve mood.
• Examples: Activities such as running, cycling, swimming and team sports support overall health and social skills.
• Importance: Physical activity supports growth, reduces stress and improves well-being during adolescence.
Balanced Social Life
We all live together in society and interact with many people every day. Being polite and respectful helps create a friendly and safe environment for everyone.
Adolescence and Social Interaction
Adolescence brings new feelings and experiences. Teenagers may form closer friendships, feel attracted to their peers and may imitate their behaviour.
Many teenagers copy the behaviour of friends as they try to find their own identity. It is important to think independently and make safe choices.
• Many adolescents now interact online through social media and messaging apps. These tools can support learning and friendships, but they also have risks.
Using Technology Responsibly
Technology helps us connect, learn and share information easily.
Use social media carefully; think before posting and protect your privacy.
Sometimes people may use social media carelessly or hurt others without meaning to.
• If you face cyberbullying, such as mean messages, rumours or the sharing of private information, tell your parents or teachers immediately and save evidence if possible.
Avoiding Harmful Substances
During adolescence, some people may pressure you to use harmful substances such as tobacco, gutka, cigarettes, beedi, alcohol or illegal drugs. Curiosity, excitement or peer pressure may tempt teenagers to try them, but refusing them is important for good health.
Why Avoid These Substances?
• They are harmful to your body and mind.
• Some of them are addictive, meaning that a person may develop a strong urge to keep using them.
• Repeated or harmful use of these substances is called substance abuse.
• Using these substances can cause serious health problems such as lung damage, breathing difficulties and memory loss.
Be Strong and Say NO!
• Say NO the very first time and every time someone offers you these substances.
• Remember that people who become addicted may have started with just one try.
Choose healthy habits such as sports, hobbies and spending time with supportive friends and family.
• If you or someone you know is struggling, talk to trusted adults such as parents, teachers or school counsellors for support.
Counselling and medical help are available and important for recovery.
5. The 'Why' Question for Adolescence
• During adolescence, the body undergoes various changes, such as the onset of menstruation and other signs of puberty. These changes are primarily driven by hormones, which are special chemicals produced in the body. Hormones regulate different aspects of growth and development and help the body function properly.
Hormones are made in different parts of the body and are released at the right time in response to signals from the brain. Some hormones also affect our mood and behaviour.
It is important to stay informed about these changes and seek support and guidance when needed. Making healthy decisions during this time can help build a strong foundation for the future.
6. Points to Remember
• Adolescence is the stage from about 10 to 19 years when a child grows towards becoming an adult.
• Physical changes include becoming taller, gaining weight and developing features such as facial hair in boys and breasts in girls.
• Puberty prepares the body for reproduction, and girls begin their menstrual cycle during this stage.
• Menstruation is natural. Using sanitary pads or clean reusable cloth pads helps girls stay clean and healthy. Myths about periods are not scientifically correct.
• Teenagers may have mood swings and feel more sensitive, but these feelings can also encourage creativity and kindness.
• Eating healthy foods containing protein, calcium and iron supports growth. Lack of iron or vitamin B12 can cause health problems.
• Good hygiene, especially during periods, is important for preventing infections. Governments and schools may provide help with sanitary products.
• Exercise and sports keep the body strong and the mind healthy.
• Use social media carefully and ask adults for help if you face problems such as cyberbullying.
• Avoid harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol and drugs because they harm health and can cause addiction.
• Hormones cause many changes in the body and feelings during adolescence.
• Learning about these changes and making good choices helps you grow up healthy and strong.
7. Difficult Words and Their Meanings
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