Adolescence is a transitional stage of physical and mental human development that occurs between childhood and adulthood. This transition involves biological (i.e. pubertal), social, and psychological changes, though the biological or physiological ones are the easiest to measure objectively. Historically, puberty has been heavily associated with teenagers and the onset of adolescent development. In recent years, however, the start of puberty has seen an increase in preadolescence and extension beyond the teenage years, making adolescence less simple to discern.

The end of adolescence and the beginning of adulthood varies by country as well as by function, as even within a single country there will be different ages at which an individual is considered mature enough to be entrusted with particular tasks, such as driving a vehicle, having sexual relations, serving in the armed forces, voting, or marrying.

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Author's Bio: 

This definition is part of a series that covers the topic of Teenagers and Parentings. The Official Guide to Teenagers and Parenting is Sue Atkins.

I'm Sue Atkins and I am a Parent Coach, former Deputy Head and teacher of 22 years and author of "Raising Happy Children for Dummies" one in the famous black and yellow series published worlwide. I'm a Mum of two great teenagers, a lover of people and fascinated by change in myself and others.

I like to encourage people to bring out and explore the best in themselves easily and effortlessly and to help them discover how to make themselves truly happy in their family relationships.I'm vibrant, energetic and enthusiastic and want to make a BIG difference in the world through helping parents give their kids the ultimate gift of ....self esteem.

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