How do boys and girls compare with regard to physical development?

• A. Boys and girls develop at the same time.
• B. Girls develop before boys do.
• C. Development is unique and depends on the boy or girl.
• D. Boys develop before girls do.

Answer: (B)

Girls generally reach physical maturation earlier than boys because puberty begins earlier and their growth spurts occur sooner. The hormonal changes in girls lead to earlier development of secondary characteristics and a peak height velocity that happens sooner, so they tend to look more physically mature earlier. Boys typically start puberty a bit later and experience their growth spurt later, resulting in a later overall pace of development. While there is individual variation, the common pattern is that girls develop before boys.