'Adolescence' is a word that is often used to describe the period of life starting with puberty and lasting all the way through the teens. It isn't really a biological word like 'puberty', as it takes account of the way you feel and relate to others as well as the changes to your body caused by hormones. Any time of change in your life tends to affect the way you feel. Some people manage to sail through adolescence with few worries - they are the lucky ones! Most people find things more difficult. The important thing is to realise that this is completely normal, and lots of people find these years a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. Worrying about the way your body is changing, and what others are thinking about the way you look. Feeling that you're different from friends of the same age - either more physically developed or less. Either can be a source of worry, and can make you feel isolated from your friends. Being misunderstood, especially by your teachers and parents. Wanting more control over things. This can bring you into conflict with adults in authority like teachers and parents. Wishing to be part of the crowd, fitting in with a group of friends, going places and doing things together. Again, this can cause arguments if your parents don't approve of your choice of friends or clothes. Concern about your sexuality - whether you might be gay or lesbian and how you will handle it if you are. Anxiety about the future as you start to think more seriously about what you want to do and what sort of person you want to be. Adults often see this as sulkiness or being moody and self-centred - another source of tension.