By: Diana García

NO, THEY ARE NOT THE SAME THING. Some people use puberty and adolescence as synonyms. However it is necessary to differentiate both terms, since they are two different stages in life.

• Puberty

This is the stage where all physiological changes, known as secondary sexual characteristics, take place. When they stop appearing, puberty ends.

• Adolescente

This is the stage when individuals start to mature. It starts with the first physical changes, that is to say, it starts with puberty but it lasts until young people reach physical and mental maturity, it means that it not only involves physiological changes but above all psychological and social changes.

• It is not the same thing

Although they are not the same, both are stages that can be considered as a transition period, a period to assimilate step by step. It is not a question of imitating others´ conduct but growing slowly. Everything has its right moment. To speed up the pace, when we are not ready yet, may be dangerous. Live every moment of your life and enjoy it, remember you only live once.

Bibliography

OTTE, Ana. “Sexual Education Course for Adolescents”. Ediciones Internacionales Universitarias.

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