The perils of puberty

Puberty and adolescence represent a transitional phase from childhood to adulthood, and are defined by the attainment of secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive capability, occurring concomitantly with psychological and social development. The perils of puberty lie in the difficult and complex inter-relationship of biological, psychological and social changes, as the adolescent strives to adjust to new social roles and identities, and new reproductive capacities. An appreciation of these changes in normal puberty is essential to all professionals caring for adolescents.