Preadolescence, or preteen, is the period of life in late childhood that occurs before adolescence. The onset of puberty, the period of sexual maturation, usually defines the beginning of adolescence. Preadolescence is roughly defined as ages 10 to 12 for girls and 11 to 13 for boys, as boys generally physically develop later than girls. Several developmental issues arise as children begin to transform into adolescents.
Physical Issues
Although preadolescence is the period before puberty, some preteen girls start breast development and some boys have testes enlargement as young as 9 years old. A rapid growth in height usually follows. These early physical changes may be difficult for a preteen, especially girls, to accept. They may feel self-conscious or different from their peers. Proper nutrition and exercise are important during this period. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity rates have tripled in this age group over the past 30 years. Adverse health conditions have been associated with being overweight, including type II diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. Getting ample sleep is also important during this time, as preteens are growing and learning. Sleep-deprivation often impairs learning and contributes to behavioral problems, indicates a study in the March/April 2002 issue of "Child Development."
Social Issues
Preteens are especially social. Although they still find family important, preteens place much value on their friends and the opinions of their peers. Preteens typically spend more time with their friends than with their families. Some preteens may seem embarrassed to be seen with their parents. They may also keep secrets from their parents, which is normal unless the secret involves risky behavior. Preteens typically have same-sex friends and informally select the leader of their peer group. Those who do not fit in are often pushed aside or even bullied by their peers. Enhancing a preteen's self-esteem is critical, as children who feel good about themselves are better able to withstand negative peer interactions. Parents may worry about peer pressure during this period, but good friends with similar values can be a positive influence and help a preteen gain confidence.
Emotional Issues
Some preteens experience mood swings, which develop from the same hormones that contribute to physical changes. Preteens may feel happy one minute and irritable or sad the next. Their feelings may be overpowering. Preteens may also give in to impulses, as the parts of the brain that are involved in impulse control have not yet developed fully.
References
- "Child Development"; Sleep, Neurobehavioral Functioning and Behavior Problems in School Age Children; Avi Sadeh, Reut Gruber and Amiram Raviv; March/April 2002
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Obesity
- "Guidelines for Health Supervision of Infants, Children, and Adolescents"; National Center for Education in Maternal and Child Health and Georgetown University; 2006
