Understanding Adolescent Development: Physical and Emotional Changes

Raising a teen is a challenging experience — something we at Omaha Childrens Clinic know all too well. Our team headed by Dr. John Vann, Dr. Tricia Schmit, and our nurse practitioner, Nicolle Bruhn has helped parents and adolescents with teen health issues in Omaha, NE, for many years. What exactly could impact your child? So many issues are at play here…primarily emotional and physical changes that you must understand.

Emotional Changes

During your child's adolescent years, their frontal cortex continues to develop — which brings big changes. From those years of about 13-18, you'll see amazing psychological and emotional maturation in your child, though some do struggle with these years. It's important to know exactly what's driving them…by the time your child is an adolescent, they're trying to:

• Stand Out: Your child will start developing a unique personal identity…this includes separating from you, coming to terms with their bodies and sexual needs, and higher needs for privacy (big changes).
• Fit In: By the time kids hit about 13, their friendship groups might change as niches develop…fitting into any social group becomes critical for adolescents and usually drives their behavior.
• Becoming Competent: Teens are very close to adulthood…and start trying harder. Stronger work habits, more independence, and plans after high school: these can all come suddenly.
• Making Commitments: Many teens start becoming more of an "adult" in relation to their parents and start basing their decisions on hopes and dreams — though this can heavily vary. 

These changes may be complicated by lots of other issues. For example, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, impulse control, and even authority concerns could develop. It's during these ages that the early symptoms of schizophrenia often show…but we're not trying to scare you. Instead, we just want you to know that your child is maturing towards adulthood.

Physical Growth 

It's important to contact us at Omaha Childrens Clinic when your child hits those adolescent years. Teen health concerns for Omaha, NE youths may develop that center heavily into their physical health, including startling changes like:

• Sudden growth spurts
• Rapid weight gain 
• Growth of pubic and underarm hair
• Changes in voice and appearance 
• Development of body odor
• Sexual urges that they might not understand

Helping Your Teen Out

During these challenging years, our team at Omaha Children's Clinic, along with Dr. John Vann, Dr. Tricia Schmit, and our nurse practitioner, Nicolle Bruhn, can provide you and your child with teen health support in Omaha, NE. We know how challenging this time is for parents… we've helped many in the area get the support that they need to stay safe. Don't hesitate to call us at (402) 330-5690 to get the long-term healthcare your little one needs.