Abstract
Problems in studying and defining pubertal events during early adolescence are examined in this paper. Whether puberty is best characterized as a social construction or as a physical event and whether early adolescence is best considered a transitional or distinct life period are discussed. Then, the markers or life events associated with puberty and possible boundaries of early adolescence are considered. Finally, possible models for studying pubertal change are discussed, focusing on timing of events, mediated effects, biobehavioral interaction, and cumulative risk models.
Puberty: The time of life in which the two sexes begin first to be acquainted.
— Samuel JOhnson
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The preparation of this article was facilitated by grants from the W. T. Grant Foundation, the Johnson & Johnson Company, and the National Institute of Mental Health.
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Brooks-Gunn, J., Petersen, A.C. Problems in studying and defining pubertal events. J Youth Adolescence 13, 181–196 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02089058
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02089058