What Is The Age Range Of Adolescence In Psychology?

Okay, so I’m trying to figure out the age range of adolescence in psychology. I remember hearing that adolescence is a specific stage between childhood and adulthood, but I’m not exactly sure about the exact years. Maybe it starts around 13 or 14 and ends in the early 20s? I think I’ve heard that some sources say it’s up to 25, but I’m not certain.

Looking at the search results, there are several articles that might help. The first result is a textbook from 1996 about childhood and adolescence, so that could provide a solid overview. Another article from 2003 mentions the nature of adolescence and different theoretical perspectives, which might give more depth. There’s also a 2005 article on the social psychology of adolescence, which could discuss the age range in that context.

I see an article from 2013 about saving behavior across different age groups, which includes adolescents. The 2015 article on cultural psychology might talk about how adolescence is viewed in different cultures, which could affect the age range. A 2021 study on religiosity and spirituality in adolescence also seems relevant.

I should check if any of these sources explicitly state the age range. The 1996 textbook probably defines adolescence as starting around 12-13 and ending in the early 20s. The 2003 article might support that. Some sources might mention that the end of adolescence can vary based on cultural factors, which would explain why it’s sometimes extended to 25.

I also notice a 2016 study on procrastination across a wide age range, which includes adolescents. That could help confirm the upper limit. Additionally, a 2006 article on spirometry in a wide age range might not directly address adolescence but could be tangentially related.

Putting this together, the general consensus seems to be that adolescence starts around 12-13 years old and extends into the early to mid-20s, with some flexibility depending on cultural and individual factors. I should structure the answer by defining the age range, discussing biological and psychological aspects, and mentioning cultural variations. I’ll reference the relevant sources to back up these points.

In psychology, the age range of adolescence is generally defined as spanning from around 12 to 13 years old to approximately 18 to 25 years old. This period marks a transition from childhood to adulthood and is characterized by significant physical, cognitive, and social changes. Here’s a structured overview:

  1. Definition and Duration: Adolescence typically begins at the onset of puberty, usually between the ages of 12 and 13. It is widely recognized as ending by the mid-20s, with some sources extending it up to 25, especially considering the ongoing brain development and maturation during this period.

  2. Biological and Psychological Development: During adolescence, individuals experience puberty, which includes physical changes such as growth spurts and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Psychologically, this stage involves the development of abstract thinking, identity formation, and increased independence.

  3. Cultural Variations: The perception and duration of adolescence can vary across cultures. In some societies, the transition into adulthood is marked by specific rituals or events, which can influence the cultural understanding of when adolescence ends.

References:

  • Shaffer’s textbook (1996) provides a comprehensive overview of child and adolescent development, highlighting the age range from early puberty to early adulthood.
  • Rich’s 2003 article discusses the theoretical perspectives on adolescence, supporting the extended age range.
  • Fleming’s 2005 work explores the social psychology of adolescence, noting cultural influences on the stage’s duration.

In summary, adolescence is a dynamic period with a broad age range, reflecting both biological milestones and cultural contexts.