DEVELOPMENT NOTES (LOA)
PIES Development in Adolescence
Physical Development
In a teen’s physical
development (9-18), the
undergo this period of
rapid growth called
Puberty. This occurs
around the ages 8-13 in
females and ages 9-14 in
males, ending at 15-18
years. Puberty enables
sexual maturity, allowing
the individual going through it to become biologically able to
reproduce. Puberty is triggered by hormones, that are released by
the pituitary gland into the bloodstream, which in turn causes
sexual characteristics to develop.
Hormones released during puberty include:
- Oestrogen (F) – released by ovaries, inhibits production of
FSH, and stimulates the pituitary gland to release the
hormone LH
- Progesterone (F) – Released by ovaries, maintains the lining
of the uterus during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle
- Testosterone (M) – Produced by testes, contributes to many
factors of a male’s physical development, such as sperm
production, facial hair, etc.