Chapter 8: Puberty

Menarche

The first menstruation, considered a significant milestone marking a girl's entrance into womanhood.

Growth Spurt

A dramatic increase in height and weight that typically occurs during puberty.

Adrenal Glands

Glands that release hormones beginning around ages 6 to 8, starting the puberty process.

Spermarche

The first ejaculation in boys, typically occurring around age 13.

Primary Sexual Characteristics

Body changes directly involved in reproduction, such as the growth of the penis and menstruation.

Secondary Sexual Characteristics

Other changes during puberty that are not directly involved in reproduction, such as breast development and voice changes.

Eating Disorders

Pathological eating behaviors that threaten wellbeing, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

HPG Axis

A system involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, gonads that regulates major body changes during puberty.

Cultural Influences on Body Image

The perception of body image can vary by cultural standards, affecting vulnerability to issues such as the thin ideal.

Puberty Rites

Ceremonies celebrating the transition into adulthood, often involving stressful tasks to mark emotional development.

Declining Age of Puberty

A secular trend reflecting a decrease in the average age at which children reach puberty, often attributed to better nutrition.

Anorexia Nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and reaching 85% or less of one’s ideal body weight.

Bulimia Nervosa

An eating disorder involving cycles of bingeing and purging in an attempt to lose weight, typically maintaining a normal weight.

Binge Eating Disorder

A condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often associated with obesity.

Body Image

The subjective picture or mental image of one’s own body, which can be influenced by societal and cultural pressures.

Psychological Changes in Puberty

Emotional and psychological transformations during puberty that accompany physical changes.