Life Span Development II School age and Adolescence

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

Lesson 15 : Pubertal Changes during Adolescence

Concept of Puberty

The term Puberty is derived from the latin word “Pubertas”, which means the age of manhood. The early stage of adolescence is known as pubertal period, marked by changes in physical development that are part of the transformation of the individual from child to adult.

The most obvious aspect of physical change in adolescence is the onset of puberty. It involves a series of biological changes that leads to reproductive maturity. It is marked by the sex specific characteristics and also by growth spurt, a rapid change in height and weight. The other physiological changes are increased oil production in the face, increased activity in the sweat glands, mood swings and emotional sensitivity.