Final answer:
Adolescence is a developmental stage between 12 and 18 years of age marking the transition from childhood to adulthood, encompassing physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes including the development of personal identity and values.
Step-by-step explanation:
Defining the "Age of Adolescence"
The concept of adolescence marked an important change in Western societies, shaping the so-called "age of adolescence." This period of transition between childhood and adulthood occurs after the onset of puberty and includes numerous physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes. During adolescence, individuals typically develop a stronger sense of personal identity, establish their own system of moral and ethical values, and experience significant changes in their relationships with parents and peers. Peer influence becomes particularly important, and teens often strive for autonomy while maintaining emotional connections with their families.
This transition is also influenced by legal definitions of adulthood, with 18 often recognized as the age of legal responsibility, while adolescence is generally categorized as ranging from 12 to 18 years of age. This stage reflects the extended time between childhood and full adult status, which is a characteristic of modern Western societies.