SPECIAL PROBLEMS FOR BOYS
Boys usually reach puberty about two years
later than girls-that is, between 14 and 16 on the average, although some
mature as early as 12 and others as late as 20. If a boy matures at an
unusually early age, a doctor should be consulted. We think it especially
important for a doctor to be consulted if a boy matures late. Boys are apt to
be concerned about their virility if they mature late. There may be a glandular
difficulty which requires treatment. But even if nothing is wrong, a doctor's
re- assurance can help prevent emotional problems. Boys grow rapidly during
this period, and their appetites often become enormous.
Hair appears on the face and the pubic
region, the genitals enlarge, and the boy is able to have erections and
ejaculations. Nocturnal emissions ("wet dreams") start. Nocturnal
Emissions this is nature's way of indicating a boy is maturing. It is also
nature's way of relieving sexual tension. The fluid, discharged at night,
usually accompanied by a sexual dream, contains spermatozoa. This event should
not be, as it too often is, a cause for shame, pride or concern. It is a
natural part of adolescence about which boys should be informed in advance.
Parents should not comment upon finding seminal stains on bedclothes or
pajamas.
