Puberty

<<teenage years>>
The time of intense change, in both males and females, from childhood into adulthood, with the capability of sexual reproduction. As physical and hormonal changes occur, adolescents become very conscious of their bodies and pay them lots of attention. Often, they wrongly perceive faults and consider themselves ‘not normal’. Most teenagers at some time feel odd, out of step, and embarrassed about some aspect of their appearance as they navigate their way through adolescence with a growing awareness and attraction, normally, to the opposite sex.

As there can be times of low self-esteem, parents need to be alert and to reassure their developing young people that this period of bewildering changes (taking place inside their bodies) will sort itself out. This can be a stressful time for parents and those experiencing this transition period, so there needs to be tolerance in the home as the

Thank God this is a transition stage – it leads to adulthood!

teenagers find their feet. Irrational and uncharacteristic, sloppy behaviour may be exhibited yet family responsibilities and courtesies are not to be neglected. The hormone surges of the adolescent years can also upset brain chemistry and emotional stability, leading to conflicts and often rebellion against authority, resulting in poor judgments and, unfortunately, tragic, lifelong mistakes.

Open, friendly communication will ensure the parents can positively guide their offspring through God’s intended growing-up process into this new stage of life unfolding for the individual. It is important not to neglect God and His ways – “How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to God’s Word” (Ps 119:9,11). Ideally, from early childhood good foundations, values, and principles were laid in all spheres of life. These need to be continued and reinforced, encouraging wise choices so the rebellious path of foolish decisions, with long-term repercussions, is not embarked on (Prov 4:26, 23:19). At this time of sexual development, masturbation often commences as a release for sexual tension however, the God-given sexual desires need be handled in an honourable way. While we have no control over our physically maturing body, we are to take responsibility for our spiritual, mental and emotional development (1 Cor 13:11). At this stage of life although being subject to powerful peer pressures, the emerging adult assumes more responsibility for their character and other aspects of life as they increasingly come out from under their parents’ authority and forge their own path in life.

Puberty blockers are medications used to suppress the production of the sex hormones oestrogen and testosterone to delay the onset of puberty. They can also be part of gender-affirming care for transgender and gender-diverse youth. However, it interferes with God’s natural developmental path and timing. Tampering with our bodies to conform to thoughts and feelings is unwise and may negatively affect important physical aspects such as cognitive development and fertility. Instead, the best approach is to help people accept and embrace the truth about their bodies and reality.