The concept of childhood ending at 12 years old is not universally agreed upon and can vary based on cultural, legal, and developmental perspectives. In many societies, childhood is considered to extend until adolescence, which is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood. Adolescence typically spans from around the ages of 10 to 19 years, and it is during this time that individuals undergo significant physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes.
The age of 12 is often associated with the pre-adolescent stage, which can be considered a part of childhood or the early stages of adolescence. However, the exact age at which childhood is said to end and adulthood begins is not fixed and can differ across cultures and legal systems. In some places, the age of majority or legal adulthood may be set at 18 or 21 years old.
During the early teenage years, children may experience heightened self-awareness, increased independence, and the beginning of sexual development. These changes mark the transition from childhood to adolescence and are influenced by biological factors as well as cultural norms and societal expectations.
It's important to recognize that the definition of childhood and its boundaries are not rigid, and different cultures and disciplines may have varying perspectives on this matter.