Final answer:
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not mandate a specific age for separating the sexes in physical exercise and sports, but notes that puberty and adolescence, with their significant biological changes, may be a factor in such considerations. Ultimately, the decision should be based on developmental readiness, safety, and the interests of the children and adolescents. Option a. is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is no strict guideline that dictates when to separate the sexes in physical exercise and sports based on age alone. However, it's important to note that puberty marks a period of significant biological changes that can affect physical exercise and sports participation. Puberty and adolescence involve the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics and can start at different ages for different individuals. Boys typically begin puberty around age 12 and end around age 18, whereas girls typically start around age 10 and finish by age 16. During adolescence, the differences in physical maturity between sexes can influence sports performance and could be a consideration in whether or not to separate by sex in sports.
It is possible for an individual boy to start puberty earlier than an individual girl because the onset of puberty varies from one individual to another, and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Puberty generally ends in males by about age 18 and in females by about age 16, though again, this can vary.
When addressing whether the sexes should be separated in physical exercise and sports, it's also important to consider the social and psychological maturity of the individuals involved. The American Academy of Pediatrics may recommend that the decision to separate should be based on multiple factors, including developmental readiness, safety, and the specific needs and interests of the children and adolescents involved, rather than a set age.