Preadolescent: meaning, definitions and examples
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preadolescent
[ ˌpriː.æd.əˈles.ənt ]
age group
Preadolescent refers to a stage in human development just before adolescence, typically between the ages of 9 and 12. At this stage, children may experience significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes as they prepare to transition into adolescence.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Preadolescent children often face unique challenges at school.
- She began her preadolescent years with a strong interest in sports.
- The preadolescent phase is crucial for social development.
Etymology
The term 'preadolescent' combines the prefix 'pre-' meaning 'before' with 'adolescent', which comes from the Latin word 'adolescere' meaning 'to grow up'. The word 'adolescent' itself entered the English language in the 14th century, primarily to describe the transitional stage of development between childhood and adulthood. With the social and psychological recognition of this distinct developmental phase in the late 20th century, the term 'preadolescent' gained popularity to specifically describe children approaching their teenage years. It reflects a growing understanding of child development and the importance of recognizing the unique needs and characteristics of children in this age group.