Puberty is an important part of adolescent development that causes dramatic physical changes. It's basically a brain process that leads to physical changes we all imagine when we think of puberty, like armpit hair and growth spurts. To understand the initial process of puberty, you need to know that it activates the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) which then drives everything that happens with it. The hypothalamus monitors eating, drinking, and sex, while the pituitary gland primarily oversees growth. Next come the gonads which are the testicles in males. From the gonads comes testosterone, which is the male growth hormone. The secretion of testosterone is accompanied by the development of the genitals, increase in size, change of voice and the beginning of the desire for sexual activity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”?Get the original essayThe onset of puberty occurs with adrenarche, which usually occurs around age 10 for boys (sometimes earlier). The remainder of puberty is known as gonadarche, and it is what most people imagine when they think of puberty. This involves the development and maturation of the testes and the appearance of factors such as the development of pubic hair, breasts and genitals. In the middle of the gonadarche, another process called spermarche occurs. This is the first ejaculation a boy experiences and it occurs during masturbation or a wet dream. As mentioned previously, all physical changes occur during gonadarche. Steinberg describes the order of pubertal characteristics as follows: increase in size of penis and testicles, appearance of straight pubic hair, minor change in voice, first ejaculation (spermarche), appearance of kinky pubic hair, onset of maximum growth, growth armpit hair, plus detectable voice change and facial hair growth. The peak age of pubertal changes is around 13 and a half years. It is during this time that boys will gain the most weight, averaging about 20 pounds during their peak year. The average age of growth spurts, which are usually around 4 inches, is 11 years old. Although these ages are average, it is important to know that premature puberty can also occur. This is called precocious puberty. It occurs abnormally early and very quickly. Precocious puberty in men occurs before the age of 9. What isn't a physical change, but definitely something to prepare for as a parent, is the insecurity and negative body image your son may begin to experience during puberty. Some boys are proud of their changing bodies despite the confusion, while others don't always feel so good about it. These feelings are a natural part of puberty and are something parents should keep in mind as these changes begin to occur. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get Custom Essay The most important thing to know about puberty is that, for the most part, everything is normal. You and your son will be confused at times, but it's important to reassure him that this is just part of life. When you are informed about the subject, then you will be able to better educate him as well. So, enjoy adolescence and enjoy your teenager – this time,..