ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses various developmental domains most pertinent to adolescents aged 14-18, most notably physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development. Regarding cognitive development, the chapter presents core concepts of abstract thinking, personal values development, and identity development. Cognitive challenges and limitations are also presented with an emphasis on how learning or cognitive disabilities may impact adolescence and, subsequently, work of counselors in school and clinical mental health settings. Within the domain of social/emotional development, the chapter highlights the importance of self-concept and self-esteem in social/emotional development of adolescence and furthermore explains adolescent norms with respect to peer and parent/caregiver relationships. Physical growth and development is a significant indicator of mid- to late adolescence. Sometimes youth experience various challenges to cognitive development. Threats to learning that are severe enough to meet diagnosable criteria typically fall into one of two broad categories: Developmental disability or learning disability. One of the most notable shifts in adolescence is social migration from family to peer group.
