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Class 7
Chapter 6 Class 7 - Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change (Curiosi

6.9.1 Male and Female Secondary Sexual Characteristics

Last updated at April 26, 2026 by

What are Secondary Sexual Characteristics?

They are body changes that occur during puberty and distinguish males from females .

Key Facts and Examples
  • Boys develop facial hair like moustache and beard .
IMG015

A teenage boy observes the growth of facial hair in
the mirror, indicating secondary sexual
characteristics.

Example: 14-year-old boys start growing thin hair on upper lip
  • Girls develop breasts during puberty .
Example: Girls notice breast development around age 11-13 years
  • Hair growth occurs in pubic area in both sexes.
Example: Both boys and girls grow hair between thighs
  • Hair growth occurs in underarms in both sexes.
Example: Teenagers notice underarm hair during adolescence
  • Boys develop broader shoulders and wider chests .
Example: 15-year-old boys need larger shirt sizes for shoulders
  • Girls develop wider hips below the waist .
Example: Girls notice their body shape changing during puberty
  • These changes distinguish males from females after childhood .
Example: Before puberty, boys and girls look more similar
Male vs Female Secondary Sexual Characteristics Body Change Boys (Males) Girls (Females) Facial hair Moustache and beard grow No facial hair growth Chest area Broader shoulders, wider chest Breast development occurs Body shape Muscular build develops Hips become wider below waist Voice change Voice becomes deeper (cracking) Voice becomes fuller (high pitched) Hair growth Pubic and underarm hair Pubic and underarm hair

Section Summary: Secondary Sexual Characteristics

Secondary Sexual Characteristics Summary Definition Body changes distinguishing males from females Male Changes Facial hair, broader shoulders, deeper voice Female Changes Breast development, wider hips, fuller voice Common Changes Pubic and underarm hair growth
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