Which period is characterized by changes as individuals move toward adulthood?

Which period is characterized by changes as individuals move toward adulthood?

• A. Infancy
• B. Adolescence
• C. Adulthood
• D. Senescence

Answer: (B)

Adolescence is the period when people experience a mix of physical, cognitive, and social changes as they move toward adult roles. Puberty brings physical and sexual maturation, while identity, independence, and more complex planning about education, work, and relationships begin to form. This active transition—developing autonomy, evaluating values, and negotiating new social roles—defines the move toward adulthood. Infancy centers on early growth and basic skills, not the broad shift into adult life. Adulthood comes after this transition with more stable roles, and senescence refers to aging later in life.

Adolescence is the period when people experience a mix of physical, cognitive, and social changes as they move toward adult roles. Puberty brings physical and sexual maturation, while identity, independence, and more complex planning about education, work, and relationships begin to form. This active transition—developing autonomy, evaluating values, and negotiating new social roles—defines the move toward adulthood. Infancy centers on early growth and basic skills, not the broad shift into adult life. Adulthood comes after this transition with more stable roles, and senescence refers to aging later in life.