PSYC 2P12 Chapter Notes - Chapter 8: Peer Pressure, System Programming, Hypothalamus
10 Feb 2015
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Document Summary
Puberty is the hormonal and physical changes by which children become sexy mature human beings and reach their adult height. Puberty rite is a coming-of-age ritual, usually beginning at some event such as first menstruation, and in traditional cultures celebrates children"s transition to adulthood. The secular trend in puberty is a century long decline in the average age at which children reach puberty in the developed world. The hpg axis is the main hormonal system programming puberty; it involves triggering a hypothalamic hormonal response in the pituitary which then releases hormones. Primary sexual characteristics referred to body changes directly involved in reproduction. Secondary sexual characteristics is the label for the hundreds of other changes that accompany puberty, such as breast development. Obesity causes early puberty in girls but not in boys. Early maturing girls are vulnerable to having difficulties during their adolescent years.
