Final answer:
Frieze and Sales outlined that adult female development is characterized by a greater increase in body fat distribution in specific areas, a once-in-a-lifetime production of eggs, and reproductive organ maturity at puberty, contrasting with continual sperm production and different patterns of muscle and bone growth in males. Social and cultural gender roles also vary, whereas biological differences are more universal.
Step-by-step explanation:
Distinguishing Patterns in Adult Female Development vs. Male Development
Frieze and Sales identified several patterns that distinguish adult female development from adult male development. In terms of physical growth, males tend to experience greater growth in muscles and bones during puberty, particularly in the upper body. On the other hand, females generally develop wider pelvis and hips in comparison to their shoulders and chest, and also gain more body fat, especially in the breasts and hips. These changes contribute to the sexual dimorphism in body composition and shape observed in adulthood.
From a reproductive perspective, males produce sperm continuously throughout their life due to the influence of testosterone. In contrast, females are born with all the eggs they will ever have, and these do not mature until puberty. The reproductive organs of both sexes form before birth, but they do not mature until puberty. Additionally, the sexual response during arousal differs between males and females in intensity and duration.
Social expectations and gender roles also significantly vary, with biological differences like menstruation and lactation capability being universal among females despite cultural differences. Meanwhile, other gender-specific behaviors and attire can differ greatly between societies.
Summary Review Questions
- Puberty differences between girls and boys include varied rates of muscle and bone growth, body fat distribution, and development of reproductive organs.
- Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining, and the first period is called menarche.
- Females tend to be shorter than males by adulthood due to earlier onset and completion of the growth spurt.