Puberty and adolescence

Increased body hair, voice changes and other physical changes are called the secondary sex characteristics of puberty. They are the consequence of changing hormone levels in the male body.

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The testes constantly manufacture sperm. While some sperm can be stored in a structure called the epididymis, the stored sperm are occasionally released as part of the normal process to make room for new sperm. This can occur automatically during sleep (known as a nocturnal emission or "wet dream") or following masturbation or sexual intercourse. Nocturnal emissions may be a common concern for young men entering puberty but they should be reassured that it is a normal part of maturation.

ADOLESCENCE

Adolescence refers to the time between the beginning of sexual maturation (puberty) and adulthood. It is a time of psychological maturation; becoming "adult-like" in behavior.

Adolescence is roughly considered to be the period between 13 and 19 years of age. The adolescent experiences not only physical growth and change but also emotional, psychological, social, and mental change and growth. During this period, adolescents are expected to become capable of adult behavior and response. See school-age child development and adolescent development for detailed information about these changes.

ADOLESCENT HEALTH CONCERNS

Adolescents face several unique health concerns, such as:

accidental injuries (cause approximately 70% of adolescent deaths)
- motor vehicle accidents
- drowning
- poisoning (usually drug overdoses)
homicide (second leading cause of death)
suicide (third leading cause of death)
alcohol intoxication
substance abuse
adolescent depression
sexual experimentation
adolescent pregnancy
sexually transmitted diseases
malnutrition, anorexia nervosa, bulimia
childhood stress

These problems are very real. Help is available through multiple agencies, including schools, churches, police and other civic groups.

Children should begin learning at home at a very young age about health, happiness, fulfillment, and dealing with life's difficulties and challenges. This should continue throughout the teenage years. Good examples set by parent(s), a stable and caring home life, participation of the parents during the growing-up process, and a good education may contribute more than any other resources to a happy and safe adolescence.