The difference between adolescence and puberty is easy to understand:
|
Adolescence is defined as the period between the onset of puberty and adulthood. Puberty is defined as the phase where a child’s physical and sexual characteristics start to mature. |
As stated above, the transitional phase between childhood and adulthood is termed as adolescence. It usually begins with the onset of puberty but can also begin in pre-adolescence phases (mostly 11-12 years of age.) It also brings about significant psychosocial as well as cognitive changes. Puberty begins when the brain starts releasing a hormone called gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This in turn stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete a few other hormones, namely – luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). LH and FSH together facilitate the secretion of sex hormones from the gonads. These sex hormones are responsible for most of the other changes observed during puberty. In boys, puberty typically begins by the ages of 11 and 12 while for girls, it begins by ages 9 and 10.
During this period, rapid bursts of growth known as adolescent growth spurt begins to occur. This is the stage where children experience rapid increase in height and weight as well as a host of other sex-specific changes. The brain also increases in complexity, with the cerebral cortex becoming more tightly folded and the unused pathways becoming erased. Significant changes occur in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision making, impulse control, abstract thinking and more.
Explore more differences between puberty and adolescence by registering with BYJU’S Biology. Alternatively, explore these other related topics:
- Adolescence-Changes, Hormonal Changes, And Reproductive Health
- Adolescence- Secondary Sexual Characteristics in Boys and Girls
- Growth and Development – Characteristics, Types, and Factors
- What Is Reproduction? – Definition & Types Of Reproduction
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Adolescence and Puberty
What is adolescence?
Adolescence is defined as the period between the onset of puberty and adulthood.
What is puberty?
Puberty is defined as the phase where a child’s physical and sexual characteristics start to mature.
What is adolescent growth spurt?
The period where rapid bursts of growth occur is known as adolescent growth spurt. In this stage, children experience rapid increase in height and weight as well as a host of other sex-specific changes.
Comments