Emotional volatility (highs and lows) with moodiness, temper flares,
and sulking during early adolescence that subside with aging toward
adulthood.
Great focus on physical appearance and concerns for “normal”
development.
Sexually active teens may have impaired self-image.
Privacy and confidentiality are important to teens for trust building.
Gay, lesbian, or bisexual youth may experience barriers in developing
self-identity.(^26) Pediatric Nursing Demystified
Chronological Developmental Stage or Defining Key Impact on
Age Range Theory Phase Characteristics Nursing Care
TABLE 2–3•Developmental Characteristics: Child to Teen
6 years to
puberty
Puberty onward
6 years old to
puberty (10–11)
10 to 20 years
(adolescence)
11 years to
adulthood
Freud
Id, ego, superego
Psychoanalytical
Erikson
Life-span stages
Psychoanalytical
Piaget:
Social/cognitive
Latency stage
Genital stage
Industry vs.
inferiority
Identity vs.
identity/role
Confusion
Formal operational
stage
Sexual interest
and social and
intellectual skills
developed
Sexual awakening
interest in person
outside family
Developing sense
of self-worth and
talents
Integrating
multiple roles
(sibling, student,
worker), managing
self image and
peer pressure
Reasons in more
abstract, idealistic,
and logical ways
Encourage sibling
and peer contact;
assess for
sex-related disease
and pregnancy in
older child and
adolescents
Provide activities
based on interest,
talents, and
abilities
Support
self-esteem;
be honest but
maximize positive
aspects of image
and minimize
defects
Discuss condition
openly with client
and allow privacy
to discuss
concerns