Adolescent Growth Spurt Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Adolescent Growth Spurt?

Adolescent Growth Spurt is the period of rapid physical growth and development that occurs during puberty. During this stage, adolescents experience an increase in height and weight, as well as secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscularity, changes in voice and facial hair. This surge in growth usually begins between the ages of 10-14 for girls and 12-16 for boys, and lasts anywhere from two to five years. The adolescent growth spurt is driven by hormones which are released during puberty. These hormones include estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, human growth hormone (HGH), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). It is this surge of hormones that signals the body to start the process of rapid physical change leading to adulthood. The changes associated with the adolescent growth spurt can have both positive and negative implications for adolescents’ health. On one hand, when managed properly these changes can lead to a healthier lifestyle overall through improved dieting choices and increased physical activity; on the other hand they can also lead to unhealthy lifestyle patterns such as overeating or not getting enough exercise due to lack of time or energy caused by focusing on academic achievements or extracurricular activities. Furthermore, if not managed properly these changes may also cause psychological distress due to body image issues which could lead to low self-esteem or depression. To ensure healthy outcomes during this important life stage it is important for parents/caregivers to provide support with regards nutrition education as well as promoting healthy eating habits; access/opportunities for physical activity; stress management skills; having conversations about sexuality; teaching good hygiene practices; building strong relationships with family members/friends etc. Additionally it is important that young people take responsibility for their own health by making wise decisions around food choices/physical activities etc., taking care of their bodies through proper rest/sleep habits, maintaining a balance between work & leisure responsibilities etc.