By Pramodini Naik, Program Manager, CYDA
Adolescence is a crucial stage of human development, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. Typically ranging from ages 10 to 19, adolescence is characterized by significant physical, emotional, psychological, and social changes. These transformations lay the foundation for adult identity, health, and behavior. In the Indian context, where cultural, social, and economic diversity is immense, the adolescent phase holds heightened significance due to the unique challenges and opportunities it presents.
Physically, adolescence is marked by puberty — a period during which the body undergoes rapid growth and sexual maturation. Hormonal changes lead to the development of secondary sexual characteristics, changes in body composition, and growth spurts. For girls, menstruation begins, while boys experience changes such as voice deepening and facial hair growth. These changes, although biologically natural, often come with confusion and anxiety, especially in settings where open discussions about the body are limited. A study by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (2017) found that nearly 70% of Indian girls had no knowledge of menstruation before their first period, indicating a severe gap in physical health education.
Psychologically, adolescence involves cognitive development that allows for abstract thinking, critical reasoning, and the formation of personal identity. Emotional regulation becomes more complex, with adolescents often experiencing mood swings, heightened sensitivity, and a quest for autonomy. Erik Erikson, in his theory of psychosocial development, described adolescence as a stage of “identity vs. role confusion,” where individuals explore various roles and ideas to develop a cohesive sense of self. In India, this psychological development often intersects with societal pressures related to academic performance, family expectations, and emerging gender roles, which can result in stress, anxiety, or depression if not addressed properly.
Socially, adolescents begin to assert independence from parents and place greater value on peer relationships. While this is a natural progression, Indian adolescents often navigate a delicate balance between traditional family values and modern influences. With increased exposure to digital media, urbanization, and changing societal norms, Indian youth face both opportunities for growth and risks such as cyberbullying, substance abuse, and early romantic involvement. According to the National Mental Health Survey of India (2015–16), nearly 10% of adolescents suffer from diagnosable mental health conditions, many of which go untreated due to stigma and lack of services.
Given these multifaceted changes, it becomes imperative for adults — parents, teachers, policymakers, and community leaders — to give focused attention to adolescent development. Adults play a critical role in providing accurate information, emotional support, and a safe environment for adolescents to grow. Evidence-based programs such as the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) launched by the Indian government in 2014 aim to address adolescent health in a holistic manner, yet the success of such programs depends heavily on active adult engagement and the dismantling of taboos around mental health, sexuality, and bodily autonomy.
In this context, the work of Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA) becomes vital. CYDA has been actively involved in empowering adolescents through life skills education, reproductive health awareness, leadership training, Remedial education. By fostering safe spaces for dialogue and self-expression, CYDA helps young people build resilience, self-esteem, and informed decision-making skills. Their community-based initiatives especially reach marginalized and rural adolescents, ensuring that no youth is left behind due to socio-economic barriers. This work directly contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (particularly SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4 – Quality Education, and SDG 5 – Gender Equality) and aligns with the objectives of India’s National Youth Policy, which emphasizes holistic youth development and active civic engagement. CYDA’s commitment aligns with global best practices and supports India’s need to invest in its demographic dividend by nurturing well-rounded, mentally strong, and socially responsible young citizens.
References:
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (2017). Adolescent Health Programme: RKSK Operational Guidelines. Government of India.
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS). (2016). National Mental Health Survey of India, 2015-16.
- Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and Crisis. Norton & Company.
- UNICEF India. (2020). Adolescent Development and Participation.
- CYDA India. (n.d.). Retrieved from: www.cydaindia.org
