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“Puberty” is a Latin word meaning “to grow hairy” (Arnett 32). In addition to hair growth, several other physical changes take place during adolescence. |
HEIGHT AND WEIGHT |
The adolescent growth rate is second only to that of a newborn infant.
Weight almost doubles and height increases by approximately 25 percent.
Growth patterns vary and not all children grow according to established patterns. Similar to adults, adolescents vary considerably in height and weight.
Heredity, nutrition, and general health are important determinants of growth and size (Tapley et al.).
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SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT |
Primary sex characteristics are those that are directly involved in reproduction and involve sperm and egg production and the development of the sex organs (Arnett 39). This process begins when the hypothalamus prompts the pituitary gland to begin secreting gonadotropin hormones, which in turn stimulate the testes to produce testosterone (an androgen) and the ovaries to produce estradiol (an estrogen) (Tapley et al.). |
Throughout childhood, both sexes produce these hormones; the rising levels of these hormones in adolescence account for the secondary sex characteristics: facial, pubic, and underarm hair, rougher and oilier skin, and breast development (Arnett 40-41). |
For both boys and girls, the changes of puberty follow an orderly sequence, but the timing of these changes varies from individual to individual. Adolescents may experience a change in their sleep-wake cycle: they may be sleepier than usual and take afternoon naps. This change results because growth hormones and gonadotropins are released during sleep; in puberty, the levels of these hormones rise markedly. This increased sleepiness usually will subside when growth and sexual development are completed. Adolescents also may experience an increased appetite; this increased food intake helps to support their tremendous growth during this time (Tapley et al.). |
Lack of sexual development in girls by age 13 or in boys by age 14 is generally considered delayed puberty and may result from organic or natural causes. Puberty that occurs before the ages of 8 in girls and 9 in boys is considered precocious puberty and also may be induced by natural or organic causes (Tapley et al.). |
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» Female sexual development
» Male sexual development
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Thirteen and all knees and elbows. |
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