Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Physical maturation refers to the process of bodily changes that occur during adolescence, including rapid growth, hormonal changes, and development of secondary sexual characteristics.
Puberty is the specific stage within physical maturation where individuals reach sexual maturity and are capable of reproduction.
Growth Spurt: A growth spurt is a period during physical maturation where there is a rapid increase in height and weight.
Secondary Sexual Characteristics: Secondary sexual characteristics are physical traits that develop during puberty but are not directly involved in reproduction, such as breast development in females or facial hair growth in males.