Chapter 4: Physical Development Flashcards
Retention of the infantile characteristics of an evolutionary ancestor
Neoteny
Graphic representation of the growth rate of an organism
Growth Curves
The head-to-foot sequence of physical growth
Cephalocaudal Develoment
Pattern of development in which the body grows from the center to the periphery (outside)
Proximodistal Development
A system of glands that produces hormones, many of which are responsible for directing growth
Endocrine System
Chemical substances produced by the endocrine glands and sent through the bloodstream transporting instructions from one part of the body to another
Hormones
The master gland that produces hormones that influence growth
Pituitary Gland
Pituitary hormone that stimulates duplication of most body cells, affecting growth
Human Growth Hormone
Hormone produced primarily by the ovaries that regulates female sexual development during puberty
Estrogen
A from of androgen or male hormone, produced primarily by the testes, that promotes sexual maturation
Testosterone
A class of hormones, including testosterone, that are found at higher levels in males than females and that influence physical growth and sexual development
Androgen
A hormone produced by the thyroid gland that influences growth and prenatal brain development
Thyroxine
