Putting pubertal timing in developmental context: Implications for prevention

Abstract

This article examines selected findings regarding the consequences of difference in timing of pubertal onset in order to build an explanatory model of puberty in context. We also seek to shed light on possible prevention efforts targeting adolescent risk. To date, there is substantial evidence supporting early onset effects on both internalizing and externalizing problems during the adolescent decade and possibly beyond. However, such effects do not directly speak to preventive intervention. The biological, familial, and broader relationship contexts of puberty are considered along with unique contexts for early maturing girls versus boys. Finally, we identify potential strategies for intervention based on these explanatory models. ß 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 52: 254-262, 2010.

Puberty as a Developmental Context of Risk for Psychopathology

“…Within this context, the passage through puberty represents not just a physical but also a psychological and social process (Graber, Nichols, & Brooks-Gunn, 2010 ;Mendle, Turkheimer, & Emery, 2007 ;Rudolph, 2009 ). Specifi cally, the physical changes of puberty carry a strong "social stimulus value" (Brooks-Gunn & Warren, 1989 , p. 41) in that they serve as an explicit signal to both youth and signifi cant others of entrance into a new life stage.…”

“…Specifi cally, the physical changes of puberty carry a strong "social stimulus value" (Brooks-Gunn & Warren, 1989 , p. 41) in that they serve as an explicit signal to both youth and signifi cant others of entrance into a new life stage. Thus, pubertal changes convey personal and social meaning about new roles, expectations, and status (Graber, 2003 ;Graber et al, 2010 ).…”

Developmentally Appropriate Practice to Promote Healthy Adolescent Development: Integrating Research and Practice

“…Incorporating the support of parents for this age group is also highly recommended to assist in navigating the physical, cognitive, and social changes associated with puberty (Graber et al 2010). Despite their behaviors, young early adolescents are closely attached to their parents, who still guide parent-child discussion (Steinberg 1990).…”

“…This approach would encourage cooperation and teamwork. Processing activities (including physical activities) with attention to coping abilities and emotion regulation would be very beneficial for this age group; particularly the early maturing boys and girls who have a greater likelihood of internalizing and externalizing risk behaviors than younger children (Graber et al 2010).…”

Onset of Breast Development in a Longitudinal Cohort

“…Several authors have described that girls maturing earlier are perceived to be aging more rapidly or have an accelerated life course, described as "weathering." 31,32 It is unclear if these adverse psychosocial outcomes associated with early maturation will be sustained when many girls mature at a younger age. The biologic impact of earlier maturation includes greater risk of several cancers, including breast, 33 ovarian, 34 and endometrial cancer, 35 as well as obesity, hyperinsulinemia, and hypertension.…”