In puberty for boys, which changes are commonly observed?

In puberty for boys, which changes are commonly observed?

• A. Decreased muscle mass
• B. Increased muscle mass, deepening of voice, growth of body hair
• C. Loss of height
• D. Slower growth overall

Answer: (B)

Rising testosterone in boys during puberty drives masculine secondary sexual changes. The most typical trio is an increase in muscle mass from androgenic effects on protein synthesis, a deepening of the voice as the larynx enlarges and the vocal cords lengthen, and the growth of body and facial hair as hair follicles respond to androgens. Puberty also includes a growth spurt with accelerated height gain, followed by a slowing of growth as puberty progresses. So statements about decreased muscle mass, loss of height, or overall slower growth do not fit the usual pattern of pubertal development.

Rising testosterone in boys during puberty drives masculine secondary sexual changes. The most typical trio is an increase in muscle mass from androgenic effects on protein synthesis, a deepening of the voice as the larynx enlarges and the vocal cords lengthen, and the growth of body and facial hair as hair follicles respond to androgens. Puberty also includes a growth spurt with accelerated height gain, followed by a slowing of growth as puberty progresses. So statements about decreased muscle mass, loss of height, or overall slower growth do not fit the usual pattern of pubertal development.