Normal Development: Middle Adolescence (15 to 17 Years Old)

Adolescence is divided into 3 stages: early (12 to 14 years), middle (15 to 17 years), and late (18 to 20 years). While certain attitudes, behaviors, and physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide spectrum of growth and behavior for each age is normal. Consequently, these guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general progression through the developmental stages rather than as fixed requirements. It is perfectly natural for a teen to attain some milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend.

Physical Development

• Most girls have completed the physical changes related to puberty by age 15.
• Boys are still maturing and gaining strength, muscle mass, and height and are completing the development of sexual traits.

Emotional Development

• May have anxiety over school and test scores.
• Is self-involved (may have high expectations and low self-concept).
• Seeks privacy and time alone.
• Is concerned about physical and sexual attractiveness.
• May complain that parents prevent him or her from doing things independently.
• Starts to integrate both physical and emotional intimacy into relationships.

Social Development

• Is increasingly aware of social behaviors of friends.
• Seeks friends that share similar beliefs, values, and interests. Friends become more important.
• Starts to have more intellectual interests.
• May be influenced by peers to try risky behaviors (alcohol, tobacco, sex).

Mental Development

• Becomes better able to set goals and think in terms of the future.
• Has a better understanding of complex interrelationships of problems and issues.
• Starts to develop moral ideals and to select role models.

If you have any concerns related to your teen's own pattern of development, check with your health care provider.