Chapter 6 — Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change

Adolescence is the stage of development between childhood and adulthood. It generally begins around 10 years of age and usually lasts until 19 years. It is a period of rapid physical, emotional, and behavioural change during which the body prepares for adulthood.

Secondary sexual characteristics are features that help distinguish males from females but are not directly involved in reproduction. Examples include voice change and growth of facial/chest hair in boys, and breast development in girls. These characteristics mark the onset of puberty.

Puberty is 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 are natural signs that the body is preparing for adulthood and mark the onset of puberty.

Acne is a skin condition in which small, reddish pimples appear, commonly on the face. It occurs due to an increase in oily secretions from the skin during adolescence that can clog skin pores and lead to infections. Pimples are a manifestation of acne.

The menstrual cycle is an important internal change in adolescent girls and a sign of good reproductive health. It recurs generally every 28–30 days (healthy cycles range from 21–35 days). The phase when blood discharge occurs is called menstruation and may last three to seven days. Menstruation stops naturally by age 45–55.

The changes during adolescence are mainly due to hormones — certain chemicals produced in the body. Hormones are produced in different parts of the body and released in response to signals from the brain. They regulate growth and development and can also influence mood and behaviour.

In adolescent boys, changes include increased height, weight gain, broader shoulders, wider chest, growth of the voice box leading to a hoarse voice (the protruding bump is called the Adam's apple), and appearance of facial hair (moustache and beard) as well as possible chest and back hair. Hair also grows in the armpits and pubic region.

In adolescent girls, changes include increased height and weight, breast development, slight voice change (voice box also grows but is smaller than in boys), and growth of hair in the armpits and pubic region. Girls also experience the onset of the menstrual cycle.

Adolescents need a nutritious diet that includes proteins and carbohydrates for growth and energy, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Calcium (from milk, millets, curd, cheese, paneer) supports bone growth; iron (from spinach, kidney beans, dried fruits like raisins and figs) helps in the formation of blood. Adolescent girls in particular may suffer from iron or vitamin B12 deficiency.

Maintaining body hygiene, particularly in the armpits and pubic region, protects against potential infections during adolescence. For girls, proper menstrual hygiene — using sanitary pads or reusable cloth pads and disposing of used pads by wrapping them in newspaper before placing in a dustbin — is essential for both comfort and health.

The Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS) provides sanitary pads free or at reduced prices to adolescent girls in rural areas. The Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) improves overall adolescent health including menstrual hygiene through peer education. The Suvidha Sanitary Napkin Initiative provides biodegradable pads at affordable prices through Jan Aushadhi Kendras. State-level schemes such as the Shuchi Scheme in Karnataka and free napkin programmes in Tamil Nadu and Odisha also exist.

Tobacco, gutka, cigarettes, beedi, alcohol, and illegal drugs are addictive — once started, a person develops a strong urge to use them repeatedly (substance abuse). They cause serious health problems including breathing difficulties, memory loss, and lung damage. The chapter advises firmly saying 'NO' the first time and every time. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and National De-addiction Helpline 14446 offer support.

Cyberbullying involves using digital devices or online platforms to harass others by sending misleading messages, spreading false rumours, or sharing personal information without consent. If someone tries to bully you online, the chapter advises not to feel scared or helpless — handle it wisely and seek help from parents and teachers. Be cautious about uploading pictures or sharing personal information with strangers.

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