Adolescence

INTRODUCTION
Adolescence is the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood that
occurs between ages 13 and 19. But the physical and psychological
changes that take place in adolescence often start earlier, during the
preteen or "tween" years: ages 9 and 12.

Adolescence can be a time of both disorientation and discovery. The

transitional period can raise questions of independence and identity;
as adolescents cultivate their sense of self, they may face difficult
choices about academics, friendship, sexuality, gender identity, drugs,
and alcohol.

Most teens have a relatively egocentric perspective on life; a state of

mind that usually abates with age. They often focus on themselves
and believe that everyone else—from a best friend to a distant
crush—is focused on them too. They may grapple with insecurities
and feelings of being judged. Relationships with family members often
take a backseat to peer groups, romantic interests, and appearance,
which teens perceive as increasingly important during this time.

The transition can naturally lead to anxiety about physical

development, evolving relationship with others and one's place in the
larger world. Mild anxiety and other challenges are typical, but serious
mental health conditions also emerge during adolescence. Addressing
a disorder early on can help ensure the best possible outcome.
 Needs:
 The amount of calories and protein that your teenager needs each
day depends on his age and weight in kilograms. Divide your
teenager's weight in pounds by 2.2 to figure out what he weighs in
kilograms (kg). The calories and protein needed for growth are
higher if your teenager is active in sports or fitness programs. Ask
your caregiver what a good weight is for your teenager at each
phase in his growth. They can help you raise or lower calorie intake
to stay at the best weight.
o Calories
 From 12 to 14: about 45 to 55 calories per kg
 Age 15 to 18: about 40 to 45 calories per kg
o Protein
 Age 12 to 14: about 1 gram per kg
 Age 15 to 18: about 0.9 grams per kg
o Vitamins and minerals: Your teenager does not need to take
extra vitamins or minerals if he eats a balanced diet. Ask your
caregiver before giving your teenager any vitamin or mineral
supplements.
  Following is a sample meal plan for 12 to 18 year old girls:

Breakfast
1 bowl oat flake-based cereal with
milk and banana
Water

Recess or
200 g tub yoghurt and
morning tea
1 cup air-popped popcorn
Water

Lunch
Ham, cheese and tomato sandwich and
1 cup fruit salad
Water

After-school
snack or
¼ cup hommus dip and 3 crispbreads and
afternoon tea
40g dried fruit and nuts

Dinner
Chicken and vegetable stir-fry with
Rice
Water

Supper (if
1 -2 slices fruit bread with ricotta and
hungry)
1 glass milk
 TARANG - ADOLESCENCE EDUCATION
PROGRAM, BIHAR
Program Objectives: The national program framework of A.E.P. envisioned to:
i) Provide accurate age appropriate information on adolescence and growing
up, to adolescent in school;
ii) Reinforce existing positive behaviour and instil life skills essential to manage
risk, communicate effectively, and deal with gender stereotypes and to
resolve/cope with risky situations young people encounter in their lives;
 iii) Equip adolescents with additional information and linkages specific to
youth friendly services, and;

iv) Act as a springboard to reach young people out of school.

Program Results: The results reflecting effective implementation are:
i) majority of schools have incorporated Tarang in their school timetable;

ii) Session records are being maintained in implementing-schools where

sessions are being conducted;

iii) Master Trainers, Assistant Resource Persons and Block Resource Persons
are engaged to extend necessary support to School Principals and Nodal
Teachers in transaction of Tarang sessions among students;

iv) Students demonstrated increase in self-confidence, self-esteem and

knowledge on life Skills;

v) Students also expressed that they are more disciplined and directed
towards their life goals;

vi) Reinforced interest and motivation in transacting Tarang Sessions among

School Principals, Master Trainers and Nodal Teachers.