During adolescence, several changes occur in the human body. Which of the following changes is associated with sexual maturation only in girls?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Growth of mammary glands.

Explanation:

• Growth of mammary glands is a change that is specifically associated with sexual maturation in girls. During puberty, girls experience the development of breast tissue, which includes the growth of mammary glands (the milk-producing glands), as well as the overall enlargement of the breasts. This is one of the primary indicators of sexual maturation in females.

• Option (b), the growth of hair on different parts of the body, occurs in both boys and girls during adolescence as part of the normal process of puberty. This includes hair growth under the arms, on the face (in boys), and in the pubic area for both genders.

• Option (c), being conscious of their looks, is a common phenomenon during adolescence, but it is not specifically tied to sexual maturation. It happens due to the increased awareness of changing bodies and social pressures, affecting both boys and girls.

• Option (d), oily skin with pimples, is another common sign of puberty that can affect both boys and girls, caused by hormonal changes that stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This is not unique to sexual maturation in girls but affects both sexes.

Important Key Points:

1. Mammary gland development is a key marker of sexual maturation in girls during puberty.
2. The increase in estrogen during adolescence stimulates the development of breasts in females.
3. The growth of pubic and underarm hair occurs in both genders but is not exclusive to girls.
4. Being conscious of looks is a psychological aspect of adolescence affecting both boys and girls.
5. Oily skin and acne are common across both genders as a result of hormonal changes during puberty.
6. Puberty in girls usually occurs between the ages of 8 and 13, and breast development is one of the first visible signs.

Information Booster:

• Estrogen is the hormone responsible for initiating the growth of mammary glands in girls, marking the beginning of sexual maturation.
• Adrenal androgens, which are produced by the adrenal glands, trigger hair growth in both sexes.
• Acne in adolescents is caused by increased secretion of sebum from sebaceous glands, which can clog pores and lead to pimples.