What Happens at Well-Child Visits for Ages 17–21?
Late adolescence is the last phase of the adolescent’s struggle for identity and separation. At this stage, the benefits of regular preschool and school-aged pediatric checkups should be clear. If all has proceeded fairly well in early and middle adolescence, the adolescent will be well on his or her way to handling the tasks and responsibilities of adulthood. If the previously mentioned tasks have not been completed however, problems may develop with the increasing independence and responsibilities of young adulthood.
The Stages of Late Adolescent Well-Child Visits
Even as a child approaches adulthood, there are still many advantages to attending checkups. From monitoring nutrition to preventing common risks, well checks help children move towards greater independence and responsibility.
A Teen’s Diet and Nutrition
BMI is a measure of weight adjusted for height and helps us assess the level of body fat and overall health of your child.
- Underweight is < 5th percentile.
- Healthy weight is 5th – 84%.
- Overweight is 85th – 95th percentile.
- Obese is > 95%.
- Morbidly obese is > 99%.
As always, it is important to remember that children should never cut calories or diet. This can result in a disruption in their normal growth patterns and may prevent them from taking in nutrients that they need for normal growth and development of organs. We strongly encourage that they learn to make healthy choices, eat appropriate portion sizes and stay active. For children who struggle with their weight or need additional guidance, we offer comprehensive dietary and nutritional counseling services to help meet the challenges of healthy eating.
Independent-Dependent Struggle With Your 17 to 21 Year Old
Late adolescence is a time of reduced restlessness and of increasing integration. The adolescent has become a separate entity from his or her family and now may better appreciate the importance of his or her parent’s values; thus, parental advice may once again be sought and accepted. It is not uncommon for some adolescents to be hesitant to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and to remain dependent on family and peers.
A Teenager’s Peer Group Involvement
Peer group values become less important to late adolescents as they become more comfortable with their own values and identity. Much time is spent in a relationship with one person. Such relationships involve more of a mutual understanding and enjoyment than on peer acceptance.
Identity Development From 17 to 21 Years Old
From the ages of 17 to 21, a young adult undergoes significant identity development, characterized by an evolving sense of perspective. These changes include the ability to delay gratification, make compromises, set personal limits and so on. During this period, as the young adult starts to embrace financial independence, there’s also a focus on developing practical vocational goals. You may also notice teenagers further refining their moral, religious and sexual values, marking a pivotal phase in their journey towards mature adulthood.
Risk Reduction for a Late Adolescent Teenager
For risk reduction at ages 17–21, parental awareness of their teen’s friends and leisure activities is vital. Set clear expectations about tobacco, alcohol and drug use, and communicate the need for protection for sexually active teens. To promote healthy dating and relationship habits, parents should focus on the values of respect and shared interests. Finally, advising teens to avoid risky or violent situations is essential for their safety.
Teenage and Late Adolescent Well-Check Visits in Cumming
Vickery Pediatrics is a trusted, compassionate provider of well-child and sick visits for children in Cumming, Buford, Dawsonville, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Forsyth County and beyond. Arrange a visit for first-class care and ongoing support. To learn more, call (678) 990-2501 or request an appointment now.
