During the middle adolescent period (ages 15–17), what happens to growth?

During the middle adolescent period (ages 15–17), what happens to growth?

• A. Accelerates
• B. Slows
• C. Stops
• D. Continues at the same rate

Answer: (B)

Growth during middle adolescence occurs at a slower pace because the major growth spurt has already occurred and puberty is moving toward epiphyseal closure. The fastest increase in height happens earlier in puberty, with peak height velocity around age 12 for girls and around 14 for boys. By ages 15–17, growth velocity markedly declines as the growth plates begin to fuse under the influence of sex steroids, so final adult height is approached and height increases become minimal. In other words, growth slows rather than accelerates, stops altogether, or stays at the same rapid rate as before.

Growth during middle adolescence occurs at a slower pace because the major growth spurt has already occurred and puberty is moving toward epiphyseal closure. The fastest increase in height happens earlier in puberty, with peak height velocity around age 12 for girls and around 14 for boys. By ages 15–17, growth velocity markedly declines as the growth plates begin to fuse under the influence of sex steroids, so final adult height is approached and height increases become minimal. In other words, growth slows rather than accelerates, stops altogether, or stays at the same rapid rate as before.