Adolescence is a period of rapid physical and emotional change, characterized by stresses and tensions as the child strives to establish an individual identity on the journey from dependence to independence and adulthood.

The onset of adolescence is puberty and although the age at which children can reach puberty varies, it is on average 12 years for girls and 14 years for boys. It generally lasts between 2 to 4 years.

Early adolescence is concerned primarily with the establishment of a sexual identity and beginning to come to terms with an independent life. Late adolescence is concerned with the actual separation from the family and the making of mating and occupational choices.

Rapid physical and emotional changes in youngsters brings increased expectations from parents and society. Young people are often told to "grow up" or "act you age" during this period of limbo, when they are neither child nor adult. It is during this period also that they are expected to make important career decisions.

Most young people get through their adolescent years without major problems. However, for some (including adults having to guide this process!) it can be a very difficult period during which a great deal of understanding, patience and support will be required.

Each of us will have different experiences in coping with our children's journey through adolescence, although there will be normal and indeed healthy themes we will all find familiar such as: -

The influence we have upon our adolescent children will depend mainly on the quality of the relationship we have with them in the years preceding adolescence. There is no point in us attempting to impose strict authority over them - they will not accept it because their natural impulse is to rebel. All the training in discipline and mutual respect should have taken place long before the onset of adolescence.