Adolescence is a transitional period between childhood and young adulthood.

Its normal difficulties can stir emotional problems, or the problems of earlier years can resurface in new forms.  Central issues of adolescent development include the monitoringand regulation of emotion, navigating complicated social relationships of school and home life, and learning to relate in a mature way with parents.

Safety is an issue in adolescents who seek risks, including illicit use of drugs or alcohol.