ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the attributes of normal and abnormal cognitive, physical, and social/emotional development of older children and young adolescents (aged 11–14). It integrates theoretical knowledge to practical application through the examination of unique roles that school counselors and clinical mental health counselors play in supporting young people during this developmental timeframe. The process of adolescent physical development and sexual maturation is a process that takes several years to complete and is fueled by changes in one's glandular and hormonal systems. The chapter discusses cognitive development, with special attention to cognitive deficits in older children and role technology may play in older children (aged 9–11). Social and emotional development in older children consists of two components: self-esteem and self-concept. Young adolescence is a significant time period where older children start to shift from immaturity of childhood into realm of mature adulthood. Young adolescents may develop a positive social/emotional identity through experimentation with different types of behavior, dress, and social outlets.
