Growth and Development, Ages 11 to 14 Years

Your child's doctor can help you discuss difficult issues with your adolescent if you ever are having trouble doing so on your own. Keep in mind that important subjects, such as sex, should be addressed long before you think your child will face them.

Talk to your child's doctor if you are concerned about your child's health or other issues. For example:

• A significant delay in physical or sexual development—for example, if Reference puberty Opens New Window has not begun by age 14.
• Becoming sexually active. Teens who are sexually active need to be educated about Reference birth control Opens New Window and Reference sexually transmitted diseases Opens New Window (STDs).
• Being Reference overweight Opens New Window. A doctor can help guide weight loss and proper nutrition.
• A significant change in appetite, weight, or eating behaviors. These may signal an Reference eating disorder.
• Severe Reference acne Opens New Window.
• Struggling to understand or use spoken or written language. Having learning problems in school could be a sign of a Reference learning disability Opens New Window.
• Showing signs of Reference attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Opens New Window (ADHD)—such as Reference inattention, Reference impulsivity, and/or Reference hyperactivity—that are causing problems at home or school.

Call a doctor or a mental health professional if your child develops behavioral problems or signs of mental health problems. Signs may include:

• Expressing a lack of self-worth.
• Reference Acting physically aggressive.
• Dropping out of school or failing classes.
• Drinking alcohol or using drugs or tobacco.
• Having serious relationship problems with friends and family that affect home or school life.
• Showing signs of Reference depression Opens New Window, such as a lack of interest in normal activities and withdrawing from others.
• Regularly experiencing severe mood swings, such as being happy and excited one minute and sad the next.

Also be aware that these problems can sometimes be Reference warning signs of suicide.

For more information, see the topic Reference Anorexia Nervosa, Reference Binge Eating Disorder, Reference Teen Alcohol and Drug Abuse, or Reference Depression in Children and Teens.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.