Seminar on adolescence kicks off

A two-day national seminar on ‘Adolescence — period of dilemma, stress and adjustment' kicked off at psychology department of Gujarat University.

On the first day, keynote speaker Hema Ghadiali, consultant psychiatrist from UK and Arti Bakhshi, faculty of University of Jammu, delivered information related to adolescence to students and faculties gathered from various institutes in the city and state.

"The onset of adolescence brings many biological changes such as puberty, development of secondary sexual characteristics and hormonal changes in the body. This is a transition period where children also go through many psychological and social changes," said Ghadiali.

Similarly, Bakhshi said that because of many reasons the period of adolescence remains in high-risk period for the initiation of lifelong tobacco use, unprotected sex, and substance abuse among others. She further added that families, schools, community among others can play important roles in ensuring that all adolescents receive the supports they need for healthy development and a smooth transition to adulthood.

On this occasion students of psychology department presented 18 papers on various issues related to adolescents. The UGC-sponsored seminar will conclude on Sunday.

Earlier during the inaugural ceremony vice-chancellor of Gujarat University Parimal Trivedi, department head Ashwin Jansari, RS Patel, head of education department and Dr Ajay Chauhan, Mental Health Hospital, Ahmedabad, were also present.