Detrimental psychological outcomes associated with pubertal timing in adolescent boys

Though often discussed as a discrete event, puberty comprises one segment of a larger developmental continuum and is notable for rapid transformation across a multitude of domains. While an earlier timing of puberty relative to peers stands as one of the most well-replicated antecedents of adolescent difficulties for girls, findings have been less consistent for boys’ development. The current review synthesizes the research on pubertal timing and psychosocial development in adolescent boys. Results are evaluated in the context of three theoretical perspectives by which precocious development is believed to affect the emergence of adverse outcomes: biological, psychosocial and selection.

► Early pubertal timing in girls is one of the most robust predictors of poor psychosocial adjustment.
► Far less research attention has focused on pubertal timing in boys.
► A synthesis of research for boys suggests that early pubertal timing is also a strong risk factor for boys.