Class 7 Science NCERT Notes – Chapter 6: Adolescence – A Stage of Growth and Change (PDF, MindMap, Q&A, Quizzes)

Chapter 6 (Science): Adolescence – A Stage of Growth and Change – CBSE Class 7 NCERT Science Detailed Study Notes.

1. Understanding Adolescence

Adolescence is a crucial stage in the human life journey, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. It is a period characterized by rapid and significant growth and development.

• Age Range: Adolescence typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 19.
• Life Stages: The human journey of life is divided into different stages: infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age.
• Core Purpose: During adolescence, the body undergoes various physical, emotional, and behavioural changes as it prepares for adulthood and develops the capability to reproduce. The pace and duration of this stage can vary significantly from one individual to another.

2. Physical Changes During Adolescence

The onset of adolescence brings numerous observable physical changes. While continuous growth in height and weight occurs from birth, these changes become particularly prominent during the teenage years.

• Changes in Body Structure:
  • Boys: Experience broadening of shoulders and widening of chests, along with gains in weight and height.
  • Girls: Undergo changes in height and weight, and a key change is the development of breasts.
• Increase in Height: A significant and noticeable growth spurt occurs during adolescence.
• Change in Voice:
  • The voice box (larynx) grows in both boys and girls.
  • In boys, this growth is more pronounced, leading to a hoarse voice. A visible bump in the throat region, known as the Adam’s apple, may appear.
  • In girls, the voice box growth is smaller, resulting in only slight vocal changes.
• Changes in Facial Skin:
  • Acne is a common skin condition during adolescence, manifesting as small, reddish pimples, usually on the face.
  • This occurs due to an increase in oily secretions from the skin, which can clog pores and lead to infections.
• Appearance of Body Hair:
  • Both boys and girls experience hair growth in the armpits and the pubic region.
  • Boys often develop facial hair (moustache and beard) and may also grow chest and back hair.
• Individual Variation: It is crucial to remember that the timing, nature, and extent of all these changes vary among individuals. These variations are completely normal, as each person experiences adolescence at their own pace.

3. Puberty and Reproductive Capability

Adolescence is the period when the body matures to become capable of reproduction. This process involves both external and internal changes.

• Puberty: This is the specific stage in which an adolescent’s body undergoes the external and internal changes required to develop into an adult capable of reproduction.
• Secondary Sexual Characteristics: These are the natural physical signs that indicate the body is preparing for adulthood. They help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in the reproductive process itself.
  • Examples in Boys: Growth of facial and chest hair, deepening of the voice.
  • Examples in Girls: Development of breasts.
• Changes Indicating Reproductive Capability:
  • In addition to observable changes, internal reproductive parts also mature.
  • Menstrual Cycle: An important internal change in adolescent girls is the onset of the menstrual cycle, commonly known as ‘the period’.
    • Frequency: It typically recurs every 28–30 days, though a healthy range is 21–35 days.
    • Menstruation: This is the phase of the cycle when blood discharge occurs, lasting for three to seven days. Some girls may experience pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
    • End of Cycle: Menstruation naturally stops around the age of 45–55, marking the end of reproductive capability.
    • Importance: The menstrual cycle is a natural process and a sign of good reproductive health. It is important to break myths and taboos surrounding it, such as the physical isolation of menstruating girls, which have no scientific basis.

4. Emotional and Behavioural Changes

Adolescence is not just a physical transition; it also involves significant emotional and behavioural shifts.

• Stronger Emotions: Adolescents often experience more intense emotions compared to their childhood years.
• Common Changes:
  • Mood swings: Feeling energetic and happy on some days, and low on others.
  • Increased sensitivity.
  • Self-exploration: Leading to increased creativity and innovation.
  • Compassion: May lead to involvement in social initiatives to support the needy.
• Managing Emotions: Understanding how emotions influence behaviour is key to making thoughtful choices and responding to situations constructively.

5. Cultivating a Healthy Adolescent Lifestyle

Making thoughtful decisions and adopting good habits during adolescence can have a powerful positive impact on overall well-being.

• Meeting Nutritional Needs: A nutritious diet is crucial for supporting the rapid growth and development of this period.
  • Essential Nutrients: A balanced intake of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals is required.
  • Key Food Sources:
    • Calcium & Protein: Milk, millets, curd, cheese, and paneer are vital for optimal bone growth.
    • Iron: Spinach, kidney beans, raisins, and figs help in the formation of blood. Iron deficiency can lead to blood-related health problems, especially in girls.
    • Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential for the proper functioning of the human body and must be obtained from food. Scientist Dorothy Hodgkin won a Nobel Prize for studying its structure.
• Personal Hygiene: Maintaining cleanliness is crucial for preventing infections.
  • General Hygiene: Pay special attention to the armpits and pubic region.
  • Menstrual Hygiene: This is essential for the comfort and health of girls.
    • Products: Use sanitary pads or reusable cloth pads.
    • Disposal: Used pads should be wrapped properly in newspaper and disposed of in a dustbin to ensure community and environmental health. Biodegradable pads are also an option.
  • Government Initiatives for Menstrual Hygiene:
    • Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS): Provides sanitary pads to rural adolescent girls.
    • Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK): Aims to improve the overall health of adolescents, including menstrual health.
    • Suvidha Sanitary Napkin Initiative: Provides biodegradable pads at affordable prices.
    • State-Level Initiatives: Various states run their own programs to distribute free sanitary pads in schools.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise, games, and sports are very important. They help keep the body and mind fit, build stamina, and boost mood.
• Balanced Social Life:
  • Interacting with others politely and respectfully creates a safe environment.
  • Responsible Social Media Use: Use online platforms responsibly for collective well-being. Be kind, think before posting, and protect personal privacy.
  • Cyberbullying: This is the use of digital devices to harass others. If bullied, it is important not to feel scared but to handle it wisely by seeking help from parents and teachers. Be cautious about sharing personal information with strangers online.
• Avoiding Harmful Substances: It is vital to learn to say ‘NO’ to harmful and addictive substances.
  • Examples: Tobacco, gutka, cigarettes, beedi, alcohol, and illegal drugs.
  • Addiction & Substance Abuse: These substances are addictive, meaning they create a strong urge to be used again and again, leading to regular use (substance abuse).
  • Health Risks: Consumption can cause serious health problems, including breathing difficulties, memory loss, and severe lung damage.
  • Prevention: The best approach is to say ‘NO’ the first time and every time.
  • Seeking Help: If facing addiction, support from family, friends, and trusted adults like parents or teachers is crucial. Counselling and medical advice are also helpful.
  • Government Initiative: The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan spreads awareness about substance abuse. A National De-addiction Helpline (14446) is available.

6. The Science Behind the Changes: Hormones

The diverse changes that occur during adolescence are primarily controlled by hormones.

• Definition: Hormones are chemicals produced in different parts of the body.
• Function: They are released in response to signals from the brain and play a crucial role in regulating growth, development, and the proper functioning of the body. Hormones are responsible for the onset of puberty, menstruation, and can also influence mood and behaviour.

*************************************************************************************************

Quiz: Test Your Understanding

Short-Answer Questions (Answer in 2-3 sentences)

1. What is adolescence and what is the typical age range for this stage?
2. Describe the primary physical changes related to body structure that boys experience during adolescence.
3. What is the Adam’s apple and why is it more prominent in boys than in girls?
4. Explain the biological reason for the emergence of pimples and acne during adolescence.
5. What are secondary sexual characteristics? Provide one example for boys and one for girls.
6. Define puberty and its relationship to secondary sexual characteristics.
7. What is menstruation, and how long does a typical menstrual bleeding phase last?
8. Why is it important to dispel myths surrounding the menstrual cycle?
9. List three common emotional or behavioural changes that adolescents might experience.
10. Why is a nutritious diet particularly important during the adolescent years?
11. Name two food sources rich in iron and explain why this mineral is important for adolescents.
12. What is the role of personal hygiene in preventing infections during adolescence?
13. Describe the correct and hygienic way to dispose of a used sanitary pad.
14. What is the aim of the government’s Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS)?
15. List three benefits of engaging in regular physical activities during adolescence.
16. What is cyberbullying and what is the recommended course of action if someone experiences it?
17. Why is it important to be cautious when sharing personal information online?
18. What does it mean for a substance to be “addictive”?
19. Name two serious health problems that can result from substance abuse.
20. What is substance abuse?
21. What is the purpose of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan?
22. What are hormones and what is their primary role in the context of adolescence?
23. How do hormones influence more than just physical growth?
24. What happens to a woman’s reproductive capability around the age of 45-55?
25. Apart from increased height, name three other physical changes common to both boys and girls during adolescence.

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ)

1. Adolescence is the period of transition between which two life stages?
   • a) Infancy and Childhood b) Childhood and Adulthood c) Adulthood and Old Age d) Infancy and Adulthood
2. Which of the following is considered a secondary sexual characteristic in girls?
   • a) Growth of pubic hair b) Increase in height c) Development of breasts d) Onset of menstruation
3. The growth of the voice box during adolescence leads to a hoarse voice, particularly in boys. This structure is also called the:
   • a) Larynx b) Pharynx c) Trachea d) Esophagus
4. Acne during adolescence is primarily caused by:
   • a) Lack of sleep b) A non-nutritious diet c) Increased oily secretions from the skin d) Hormonal inactivity
5. The stage in which the body develops into an adult capable of reproduction is called:
   • a) Menstruation b) Adulthood c) Puberty d) Infancy
6. The typical recurrence of the menstrual cycle is generally every:
   • a) 10–15 days b) 21–27 days c) 28–30 days d) 35–40 days
7. Which of the following is NOT a common emotional change during adolescence?
   • a) Mood swings b) Increased sensitivity c) A complete lack of curiosity d) Self-exploration
8. Milk, curd, and paneer are important for adolescents because they are rich sources of:
   • a) Iron and Vitamin C b) Carbohydrates and Fiber c) Calcium and Proteins d) Fats and Vitamin B12
9. Scientist Dorothy Hodgkin won a Nobel Prize for studying the structure of which essential substance?
   • a) Iron b) Vitamin B12 c) Calcium d) Protein
10. The Suvidha Sanitary Napkin Initiative provides what type of product at affordable prices?
    • a) Reusable cloth pads b) Imported sanitary pads c) Biodegradable sanitary pads d) Medicated sanitary pads
11. What is the primary purpose of the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK)?
    • a) To provide free food to adolescents b) To improve the overall health of adolescents c) To offer scholarships for higher education d) To build more sports facilities
12. Harassing others by sending misleading messages or spreading false rumors online is known as:
    • a) Social networking b) Peer pressure c) Substance abuse d) Cyberbullying
13. Which of the following is an addictive substance mentioned in the text?
    • a) Milk b) Spinach c) Tobacco d) Millets
14. The strong urge to take a substance again and again is a sign of:
    • a) Good hygiene b) Addiction c) Physical fitness d) Emotional maturity
15. What is the National De-addiction Helpline number provided by the Government of India?
    • a) 100 b) 1098 c) 14446 d) 1950
16. The various changes in the body during adolescence are primarily controlled by:
    • a) Diet b) Hormones c) Physical activity d) Peer influence
17. Which of the following physical changes occurs ONLY in adolescent boys?
    • a) Growth of hair in armpits b) Increase in height c) Emergence of pimples d) Growth of a moustache
18. The period of blood discharge during the menstrual cycle is called:
    • a) Puberty b) Menopause c) Menstruation d) Ovulation
19. For good personal hygiene, adolescents should pay particular attention to cleanliness in which areas?
    • a) Hands and face only b) Hair and nails c) Armpits and the pubic region d) Feet and legs
20. Saying ‘NO’ is a crucial skill for adolescents to avoid:
    • a) Physical activities b) Nutritious food c) Harmful substances d) Social interaction

*************************************************************************************************

Answer Keys

Short-Answer Questions – Answer Key

1. Adolescence is the period of transition from childhood to adulthood. It typically begins around the age of 10 and lasts until 19 years of age.
2. During adolescence, boys typically experience a broadening of their shoulders and a widening of their chests. This is in addition to a prominent increase in overall height, weight, and strength.
3. The Adam’s apple is a bump in the throat region that results from the growth of the voice box (larynx). It is more prominent in boys because their voice box grows significantly larger than in girls, leading to a deeper voice.
4. Pimples and acne occur due to an increase in oily secretions from the skin during adolescence. These secretions can clog the skin’s pores, which may then lead to infections that manifest as pimples.
5. Secondary sexual characteristics are features that distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction. An example in boys is the growth of facial hair, and an example in girls is the development of breasts.
6. Puberty is the stage in which an adolescent’s body matures and becomes capable of reproduction. The appearance of secondary sexual characteristics are the natural signs that mark the onset of puberty.
7. Menstruation is the phase of the menstrual cycle when blood is discharged from the body. This phase typically lasts for three to seven days.
8. It is important to dispel myths because menstruation is a natural process and a sign of good reproductive health. Wrong beliefs lead to unnecessary fear, shame, and harmful practices like physical isolation, which have no scientific basis.
9. Three common changes are mood swings, where feelings can shift from happy to low; increased sensitivity to situations and comments; and a period of self-exploration that can foster creativity.
10. A nutritious diet is crucial because adolescence is a period of rapid growth and development. The body requires adequate amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support these significant physical changes.
11. Spinach and kidney beans are two food sources rich in iron. Iron is essential for the formation of blood, and preventing iron deficiency is particularly important for adolescents, especially girls.
12. Maintaining good personal hygiene helps protect against potential infections. This is particularly important in areas like the armpits and pubic region where hair growth begins and sweating may increase.
13. A used sanitary pad should be wrapped properly, for instance in newspaper, and then disposed of inside a dustbin. This practice is important for maintaining community health and environmental cleanliness.
14. The Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS) aims to improve menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in rural areas. It does this by providing sanitary pads free of charge or at a reduced price and conducting awareness programs.
15. Regular physical activity keeps the body and mind fit and healthy. It also helps to build up stamina for daily tasks and can significantly boost one’s mood.
16. Cyberbullying is the use of digital devices or online platforms to harass others. If someone experiences it, they should not feel scared but should handle it wisely by seeking help from trusted adults like parents and teachers.
17. It is important to be cautious online because sharing personal information or photos with strangers can be risky. This information could be misused, or it could make one a target for negative behaviors like cyberbullying.
18. For a substance to be “addictive” means that once a person starts consuming it, they develop a strong urge to take it again and again. This can lead to regular, uncontrollable use.
19. Substance abuse can cause severe health problems such as chronic breathing difficulties and damage to the lungs. It can also lead to mental health issues like memory loss.
20. Substance abuse is the regular consumption of harmful and addictive substances. It occurs when a person develops an addiction and starts using substances like tobacco, alcohol, or drugs frequently.
21. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan is an initiative by the Government of India that aims to spread awareness about the dangers of substance abuse. It focuses on prevention, especially among children, by involving youth and the community.
22. Hormones are chemicals produced within the body that act as messengers. In adolescence, their primary role is to regulate the various aspects of growth and development, initiating the changes associated with puberty.
23. Besides controlling physical growth, hormones also play a crucial role in influencing mood and behaviour. This is why adolescents often experience stronger emotions and mood swings.
24. Around the age of 45-55, menstruation stops naturally in a woman’s life. This marks the end of her reproductive capability.
25. Besides increased height, three other changes common to both sexes are the emergence of pimples, the growth of hair in the armpits, and the growth of hair in the pubic region.

Multiple-Choice Questions – Answer Key

1. b) Childhood and Adulthood
2. c) Development of breasts
3. a) Larynx
4. c) Increased oily secretions from the skin
5. c) Puberty
6. c) 28–30 days
7. c) A complete lack of curiosity
8. c) Calcium and Proteins
9. b) Vitamin B12
10. c) Biodegradable sanitary pads
11. b) To improve the overall health of adolescents
12. d) Cyberbullying
13. c) Tobacco
14. b) Addiction
15. c) 14446
16. b) Hormones
17. d) Growth of a moustache
18. c) Menstruation
19. c) Armpits and the pubic region
20. c) Harmful substances

*************************************************************************************************

Essay Questions and Answers

1. Describe the key physical, emotional, and behavioural changes that characterize the stage of adolescence. How do these changes differ between boys and girls?

Answer: Adolescence, the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood occurring between ages 10-19, is defined by a multitude of interconnected changes. Physically, both boys and girls experience a prominent increase in height, weight, and strength. Common changes include the emergence of acne due to increased oily skin secretions and the growth of hair in the armpits and pubic region. However, certain changes, known as secondary sexual characteristics, differ by gender. Boys experience a broadening of the shoulders and widening of the chest, the growth of facial hair (moustache and beard), and a significant deepening of the voice caused by the enlargement of the voice box (Adam’s apple). Girls undergo the development of breasts.

Emotionally and behaviourally, adolescence is marked by stronger emotions than childhood. This can manifest as mood swings, increased sensitivity, and a drive for self-exploration, which may foster creativity. Adolescents might also develop a greater sense of compassion, leading to involvement in social work. Understanding that these emotional shifts are a normal part of development is key to navigating this stage successfully.

2. What is puberty, and what role do secondary sexual characteristics play in this process? Provide specific examples for both males and females.

Answer: Puberty is the specific stage within adolescence where the body undergoes both external and internal changes to develop into an adult capable of reproduction. It is a biological process driven by hormones. Secondary sexual characteristics are the observable physical features that emerge during puberty, serving as natural signs that the body is preparing for adulthood. These characteristics help to distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in the process of reproduction itself.

For males, key secondary sexual characteristics include the growth of facial hair (moustache and beard), the possible growth of chest hair, and a significant change in voice to a deeper, hoarse tone due to the growth of the Adam’s apple. For females, the most prominent secondary sexual characteristic is the development of breasts. The appearance of these characteristics signals the onset of puberty and the body’s journey toward reproductive maturity.

3. Explain the menstrual cycle in adolescent girls, including its frequency, duration, and biological significance. Why is it important to combat myths and promote proper menstrual hygiene?

Answer: The menstrual cycle is a significant internal change that begins during adolescence in girls, marking a key milestone in reproductive development. It is a natural process that generally recurs every 28-30 days, although cycles ranging from 21-35 days are also considered healthy. The phase of the cycle known as menstruation involves the discharge of blood, which typically lasts for three to seven days. The onset of the menstrual cycle is a sign of good reproductive health and indicates that the body is maturing towards adulthood.

It is crucial to combat myths and taboos about menstruation because these have no scientific basis and often lead to unnecessary fear, shame, and harmful practices like isolating girls. Promoting a scientific outlook helps society understand that menstruation is a normal biological function. Proper menstrual hygiene, including the use of sanitary pads and their correct disposal, is essential for both comfort and health, helping to prevent potential infections.

4. Nutrition and personal hygiene are highlighted as crucial for a healthy adolescence. Elaborate on the specific nutritional needs and hygiene practices recommended for this age group.

Answer: During adolescence, a period of intense growth, nutritional needs are heightened. A balanced diet rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals is essential. Key food sources include milk, curd, and paneer for calcium and protein to support optimal bone growth, and foods like spinach and kidney beans for iron, which is vital for blood formation and preventing deficiencies. Personal hygiene is equally important for preventing infections. Adolescents should maintain body hygiene, with particular focus on the armpits and pubic region where new hair growth occurs. For girls, menstrual hygiene is critical; this involves using products like sanitary pads and ensuring they are disposed of properly by wrapping them in newspaper and placing them in a dustbin.

5. What are the dangers of substance abuse during adolescence? Explain what addiction is and outline the steps an adolescent can take to avoid these substances and seek help if needed.

Answer: Substance abuse during adolescence poses severe risks to both physical and mental health. Harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs are not only damaging but also addictive. Addiction is a condition where a person develops a strong, compulsive urge to take a substance repeatedly, eventually leading to regular use, known as substance abuse. The health consequences can be dire, including breathing difficulties, memory loss, and long-term damage to vital organs like the lungs.

The most effective strategy for avoiding these dangers is to learn to say ‘NO’ firmly and confidently, especially when faced with peer pressure. Since even a single trial can lead to addiction, it is critical to refuse the first time and every time. If an adolescent is struggling with addiction, the first step is to seek help and support by talking to trusted people like parents, teachers, or friends. Professional help through counselling and medical advice is also a vital resource in overcoming addiction.

6. Discuss the importance of a balanced social life for an adolescent, including responsible use of social media and the issue of cyberbullying.

Answer: A balanced social life is vital for an adolescent’s development. It involves interacting with others politely and respectfully, which helps create a favorable and safe environment. In today’s world, a large part of social interaction occurs online. It is crucial for adolescents to use social media platforms responsibly by being kind, thinking before posting, and protecting their personal privacy.

A significant danger of online interaction is cyberbullying, which involves using digital devices to harass others by sending hurtful messages, spreading rumors, or sharing personal information without consent. Adolescents should be taught to handle this wisely by not feeling helpless but by seeking immediate help from parents and teachers. Being cautious about uploading pictures or sharing personal information with strangers online is a key preventative measure for maintaining a safe and balanced social life.

7. Hormones are the primary drivers of change during adolescence. Explain what hormones are and describe their comprehensive role in the physical and emotional transformations of this period.

Answer: Hormones are chemical substances produced in different parts of the body that act as messengers, regulating various bodily functions. During adolescence, they are the primary drivers of the profound transformations that occur. Released at appropriate times in response to signals from the brain, hormones initiate and control the process of puberty.

Their role is comprehensive. Physically, they trigger the growth spurt, the development of secondary sexual characteristics like facial hair in boys and breasts in girls, and the maturation of the reproductive system, including the onset of menstruation in girls. Emotionally, hormones can significantly influence mood and behaviour, contributing to the heightened emotions, sensitivity, and mood swings that are characteristic of this life stage.

8. Outline the various government initiatives in India aimed at supporting the health and well-being of adolescents, particularly focusing on menstrual hygiene and substance abuse.

Answer: The Government of India has launched several initiatives to support adolescent health. To promote menstrual hygiene, schemes like the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS) provide sanitary pads at low or no cost to girls in rural areas and conduct awareness programs. The Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) aims to improve overall adolescent health, including menstrual hygiene, often through peer education. The Suvidha Sanitary Napkin Initiative makes biodegradable pads more accessible.

To combat substance abuse, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. This campaign focuses on spreading awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and preventing its use among children and youth through active community participation. Furthermore, the government has established a National De-addiction Helpline (14446) to provide support and help to those struggling with addiction.

9. Shalu states, “Adolescence brings only physical changes.” Using information from the text, formulate a comprehensive argument to correct her statement.

Answer: Shalu’s statement that adolescence brings only physical changes is incorrect and incomplete. While physical changes are indeed a very visible part of this stage, adolescence is a period of holistic transformation that also includes profound emotional, behavioural, and biological changes.

Physically, adolescents grow taller, gain weight, and develop secondary sexual characteristics. However, alongside these external changes, there are critical internal developments, such as the maturation of the reproductive system, which leads to girls starting their menstrual cycle. Furthermore, adolescents experience significant emotional and behavioural shifts. They often have stronger emotions, mood swings, and increased sensitivity compared to their childhood. This is also a time for self-exploration, creativity, and developing a deeper sense of compassion. Therefore, a correct description of adolescence must include these crucial emotional and behavioural dimensions in addition to the physical ones.

10. “Your health and your future are in your hands — choose wisely!” How does this statement apply to the key challenges and opportunities of adolescence described in the text?

Answer: This statement powerfully summarizes the essence of adolescence as a period of critical decision-making. The text outlines several challenges where wise choices are paramount. One major challenge is peer pressure related to harmful substances like tobacco and drugs. Choosing to say ‘NO’ is a decision that protects one’s physical and mental health and prevents the life-altering consequences of addiction. Another challenge is navigating the digital world; choosing to use social media responsibly and seeking help against cyberbullying protects one’s social and emotional well-being.

Simultaneously, adolescence presents opportunities that depend on wise choices. Choosing a nutritious diet and engaging in regular physical activity lays the foundation for a healthy adult life. Choosing to channel heightened emotions and curiosity into creative pursuits or social work can lead to personal growth and positive community impact. In essence, the choices made during adolescence regarding nutrition, hygiene, social interactions, and avoiding harmful substances directly shape an individual’s health and future trajectory.

*************************************************************************************************

Glossary of Key Terms

Term	Definition
Acne	A skin condition common during adolescence in which small, reddish pimples appear, often on the face, due to increased oily secretions.
Adam’s apple	The bump seen in the throat region of adolescent boys, caused by the growth of the voice box (larynx).
Adolescence	The period of life marking the transition from childhood to adulthood, generally occurring between the ages of 10 and 19 years.
Cyberbullying	The use of digital devices such as phones or computers to harass others by sending misleading messages, spreading false rumours, or sharing personal information without consent.
Hormones	Chemicals produced in the body that regulate various aspects of growth and development, including the changes that occur during adolescence.
Menstrual cycle	An important natural process in adolescent girls that recurs generally every 28–30 days and is a sign of good reproductive health.
Menstruation	The phase of the menstrual cycle when blood discharge occurs from the body, typically lasting for three to seven days.
Puberty	The stage in which the body of an adolescent undergoes external and internal changes to develop into an adult capable of reproduction.
Secondary sexual characteristics	Natural signs that the body is preparing for adulthood which help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction (e.g., facial hair in boys, breast development in girls).
Substance abuse	The regular consumption of harmful and addictive substances (like tobacco, alcohol, or drugs) after developing an addiction.
Voice box	The structure in the throat that helps a person to speak. It undergoes growth during adolescence, leading to changes in voice.