Adolescence and Puberty (12-16+ years)
Puberty is basically your body's massive renovation project, and it affects everyone differently. Girls typically start between 10-14 years, whilst boys begin slightly later at 12-16 years, though some African American girls may start as early as 9.
Your body doesn't just grow - it completely transforms. Growth spurts can leave you feeling like you've borrowed someone else's limbs overnight, which is why rest becomes so important (yes, lying in is actually necessary sometimes!).
The physical changes include developing secondary sex characteristics, increased muscle strength and endurance (especially pronounced in boys), and cardiovascular improvements. Your bones grow and strengthen, whilst your entire body composition shifts towards adult proportions.
This transformation affects your mind too. Sexual curiosity emerges naturally, and you might find yourself rebelling against authority - even refusing basic hygiene routines, though deep down you still crave structure and guidance.
Fascinating Fact: The average age for girls starting periods dropped from 15 years in 1900 to just 12.5 years by the 1990s, showing how nutrition and environment influence development!