Stages of Development in Adolescent Males

Stage 3

Typical Age Range

This stage starts when the adolescent growth spurt begins and ends when the rapid growth period slows down. On average it start around age 13.5, but can start as early as 10 or as late as 17. It typically lasts about two years.

Growth

Growth spurt occurs in this stage, growing at a typical rate of about 3 to 4 inches (7 to 10 cm) per year.

Genitals

Scrotum takes on a hanging appearance when warm. One testical, usually the left, will hang lower than the other. Testes are between 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches (3.6 to 4.1 cm) measured in along the long axis or 6 to 12 ml in volume.

Penis continues to grow, but mostly in length. Glans at the end of the penis darkens in color.

Hair

Pubic hair darkens and becomes curly, spreads across the groin, though not real dense. Hair under arms becomes noticable.

Voice

Voice begins to crack as the voice box gets larger.

Body

Ring (areota) darkens around the nipples.

Breasts stands out on about half of all boys as fat accumulates under the nipples.

Attitude

Moodiness becomes noticeable as hormones fluxuate wildly.