Life Span Development II School Age and Adolescence

Life Span Development II: School age and Adolescence 3 (2+1)

Lesson 17 : Pubertal changes and their effects on adolescent personality

Early maturation in boys

Early maturation in boys it is a plus point for the boys. They seem too large for their age so there is a considerable athletic advantage than late maturing boys.

Studies show that early maturing boys have several advantages. They tend to be

Stronger and taller More muscular and better coordinated, hence are at better advantage in sports and outdoor games. They too enjoy considerable social advantage in relation to their peers. Their superior built and athletic skills enhance their social prestige and position. Have a positive self–concept, more self-assured, independent, cooperative, enterprising, sociable and conforming. Adults tend to rate them as more physically attractive, more masculine, better groomed and more relaxed, also expect adult behaviour and responsibilities. Make friendships with older adolescents.

Disadvantages of early maturation in boys:

• Have less time to enjoy freedom that comes from childhood.
• More likely to involve in problem or deviant activities.

On the other hand the late mature boys may suffer with socially induced inferiority because of their delayed growth and development (Hayward, Killen, Wilson and Hammer, 1997). At age 15, the late mature boys may be 8 inches shorter and 30 pounds lighter than his early maturing counterparts.