Purpose Definition of adolescence

© Oxford Policy Management Ltd, July 2017 1 1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of the document review is to contribute towards development of an evidence-based set of criteria for what constitutes a ‘promising practice’ in adolescent programming in Indonesia. This appreciation of the useful strategies and interventions in adolescent programming will be critical to effective future targeting of limited resources in a context of inequality and huge need. This report, • provides an update on knowledge and understanding of recent developments in adolescent programming globally, regionally and in Indonesia • examines the strategies that have been identified as most effective in contributing towards improvements in outcomes for adolescents as they move towards adulthood to become, “the agents of change for economic growth and torchbearers for sustainable development” UN General Assembly 2015, and, • defines what is meant by ‘promising practice’ in the context of this review. The document review supports the selection process of specific adolescent programmes for further in-depth case study review as promising practices.

1.2 Definition of adolescence

Adolescence is, ‘a stage of major growth and development in which significant physiological, cognitive, psychological and behavioural changes take place and important developmental tasks, such as developing an identity and becoming independent, need to be accomplished’, Schmeid and Tully 2009; WHO 2014. It is a social rather than biological construct which is applied to define that period of transition from childhood to adulthood and as such definitions can vary according to culture and context. This report applies the UN definition of adolescence as the period from 10 to 19 years of age, acknowledging that characteristics of this stage may extend up to age 24, and that adolescent well- being is also determined by early child development before age 10 UNICEF 2011. There is also an acknowledgement that the age range 10-14 years old is of critical importance because this is the onset of physical, emotional, cognitive and social changes - a rapid and rich learning period and associated risk factors Ibid.. The broader review of adolescent programmes notes that although the target group is 10-19 year olds, programmes for young people in the age group 15-24 whilst not adolescent-specific, nonetheless include adolescents and can be considered for inclusion. Special attention is paid to sex and gender differences. The World Health Organisation notes that girl reach biological development milestones up to two years ahead of boys and that expectations and societal norms differ significantly between adolescent boys and adolescent girls in most societies WHO 2014. Equally the diverse needs of adolescents with disabilities is also considered, in alignment with the 2012 UNESCAP Incheon Strategy policy direction. In this paper, the terms ‘young person’ and ‘young people’ are used interchangeably with adolescents for ease of reading.

1.3 Scope of the document review