Clasification of Ages According to the World Health Organization (WHO)
The World Health Organization (WHO) provides a comprehensive classification of ages that helps in understanding the various stages of human development. By categorizing ages into different groups, the WHO aims to facilitate research, policy-making, and health interventions. Let’s delve into the details of this classification and explore its dimensions.
Infancy (0-23 months)
Infancy is a critical period of growth and development. During this stage, children experience rapid physical, cognitive, and social changes. The WHO defines infancy as the period from birth to 23 months. This classification is further divided into two sub-periods:
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Newborn (0-28 days): This period is characterized by the adaptation of the newborn to the external environment. It involves the establishment of breastfeeding, development of basic reflexes, and the initial stages of sensory and motor development.
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Infancy (29 days to 23 months): This stage is marked by significant growth in motor skills, language development, and social interaction. Children start to crawl, walk, and communicate through gestures and sounds.
Early Childhood (24 months to 4 years)
Early childhood is a period of rapid cognitive, social, and emotional development. The WHO categorizes this stage as extending from 24 months to 4 years. Key aspects of this stage include:
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Cognitive Development: Children begin to understand cause and effect, learn basic concepts, and develop problem-solving skills.
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Social and Emotional Development: Children start to form relationships with peers and develop empathy, self-awareness, and emotional regulation.
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Language Development: Language skills continue to grow, and children begin to use sentences and express their thoughts and feelings.
Preschool (4-5 years)
The preschool age group is characterized by the development of independence and curiosity. The WHO defines this stage as extending from 4 to 5 years. Key aspects of this stage include:
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Physical Development: Children develop fine and gross motor skills, such as writing and jumping.
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Social and Emotional Development: Children become more independent and start to understand the rules and expectations of society.
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Cognitive Development: Children continue to develop problem-solving skills and begin to understand abstract concepts.
Early School Age (6-11 years)
Early school age is a period of significant cognitive, social, and emotional development. The WHO defines this stage as extending from 6 to 11 years. Key aspects of this stage include:
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Cognitive Development: Children develop critical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
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Social and Emotional Development: Children begin to form long-lasting friendships and develop empathy and understanding of others’ perspectives.
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Physical Development: Children continue to grow and develop their motor skills, such as coordination and agility.
Adolescence (12-19 years)
Adolescence is a period of significant physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. The WHO defines this stage as extending from 12 to 19 years. Key aspects of this stage include:
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Physical Development: Adolescents experience rapid growth and changes in their bodies, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
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Cognitive Development: Adolescents develop abstract thinking, reasoning, and decision-making skills.
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Social and Emotional Development: Adolescents explore their identity, develop relationships, and face challenges related to peer pressure and self-esteem.
Young Adulthood (20-24 years)
Young adulthood is a period of transition and establishment of independence. The WHO defines this stage as extending from 20 to 24 years. Key aspects of this stage include:
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Physical Development: Young adults continue to develop their physical abilities and may engage in sports or other physical activities.
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Cognitive Development: Young adults refine their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and may pursue higher education or professional training.
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Social and Emotional Development: Young adults establish their careers, form long-term relationships, and face the responsibilities of adulthood.
