Unit 1: Physical Development in Adolescence Flashcards
What is Adolescence?
Adolescence is an important status change which happens as a result of the beginning of puberty. It is the development of a child to an adult.
What is the age range for Adolescence?
9-18 Years Old
What is puberty?
Puberty is a period of rapid growth and change due to young(er) people reaching sexual maturity. Puberty is a developmental stage that prepares the body for sexual reproduction, which is triggered by hormones that control those sexual development.
What are Primary Sexual Characteristics?
They are features that are present or on yourself since birth. These are parts of the body that are directly involved with reproduction.
What are Secondary Sexual Characteristics?
They are features on the human body that appear during puberty. These parts of the body are parts that aren’t directly involved with reproduction.
Give examples of Primary Sexual Characteristics in Males.
The testicles begin to produce sperm.
Spontaneous erections will occur which allows men to ejaculate.
The penis and testes will enlargen.
Give example of Primary Sexual Characteristics in Females.
The menstrual cycle begins.
The uterus enlarges and vagina lengthens.
Give examples of Secondary Sexual Characteristics in Males.
Growth in facial, armpit and pubic hair.
Voice will deepen.
Muscle tissue will begin to redistribute themselves creating wider shoulders.
Give examples of Secondary Sexual Characteristics in Females.
Growth in facial, armpit and pubic hair.
Redistribution of body fat causing hips to widen.
The breasts will begin to develop.
What is a hormone?
A hormone is a chemical substance produced in the body and is transported through the bloodstream that controls or regulates body or organ cells.
What is Testosterone?
It is the hormone responsible for males to change physically during puberty. It is also responsible for sperm production.
What is Oestrogen and Progestone?
They are hormones that occur in females encouraging ovulation.
What is the main basis of Oestrogen?
Oestrogen stimulates the uterus lining for the embryo to form in.
What is the main basis of Progestone?
It inhibits the release of LH and FSH which maintains the uterus lining until it stops and sheds.
