PSYC 1000 Chapter Notes - Chapter 10.3: Social Rejection, Synaptic Pruning, Pubic Hair
22 Feb 2017
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Document Summary
The physical transition from childhood to adolescence starts with puberty, culminating in reproductive maturity. It begins at about age 11 in girls and age 13 in boys, although there is a wide range. The changes that occur during puberty are primarily caused by hormonal activity. Physical growth is stimulated by the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus begins stimulating the release of hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, which contribute to the development of primary and secondary sex traits in boys and girls. Primary sex traits are changes in the body that are part of reproduction (enlargement of genitals, ability to ejaculate, the onset of menstruation) Secondary sex traits are changes in the body that are not part of reproduction, such as the growth of pubic hair, increased breast size in females, and increased muscle mass in males. Menarche, the onset of menstruation typically occurs around age 12, influenced by physiological and environmental factors like nutrition, genetics, physical activity levels, and illness.
