Normal Development: Late Adolescence (18-20 Years Old)

Adolescence is divided into three stages: early (12 to 14 years), middle (15 to 17
years), and late (18 to 20 years). While certain attitudes, behaviors, and physical
milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide range of growth and behavior for each
age is normal. These guidelines show general progress through the developmental
stages rather than fixed requirements. It is perfectly natural for a teen to reach some
milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend.

A. Emotional Development
1. Has a better sense of self.
2. Becomes gradually more emotionally stable.
3. Has a greater concern for others.
4. Has thoughts about his or her purpose in life.
5. Has pride in his or her own work.
B. Social Development
1. Has become self-reliant and able to make own decisions.
2. Becomes more comfortable around parents.
3. Becomes interested in and concerned about serious relationships.
4. Can combine both emotional and physical intimacy in a relationship.
5. Has developed a clear sexual identity.
C. Mental Development
1. Has ability to think ideas through and set goals.
2. Has ability to express ideas.
3. Has developed a deeper view of life and may become involved in community
issues (environment, homelessness, world hunger).
D. Identity Development and Movement Toward Independence
(Approximately 17-21 years of age)
Firmer identity; ability to delay gratification; ability to think through ideas;
ability to express ideas in words; more developed sense of humor; interests
and emotions become more stable; ability to make independent decisions;
ability to compromise; pride in ones work; self reliance; greater concern for
others.
E. Future Interests and Cognitive Development (Approximately 17-21 years
of age)
More defined work habits; higher level of concern for the future; thoughts
about ones role in life.
F. Ethics and Self-Direction(Approximately 17-21 years of age)
Useful insight; focus on personal dignity and self-esteem; ability to set goals
and follow through; acceptance of social institutions and cultural traditions;
selfregulation of self esteem
G. Sexuality (Approximately 17-21 years of age)
Concerned with serious relationships; clear sexual identity; capacities for
tender and sensual love.
H. Physical Changes (Approximately 17-21 years of age)
Most young women are fully developed; young men continue to gain height,
weight, muscle mass, body hair.