Anorexics often have disturbed relationships with their parents. Nutrition is extremely important to individual health. Adolescents also worry about body odor and acne caused by the increased secretion of skin glands during puberty. Prompt attention and treatment of acne may prevent its becoming severe. The timing of physical maturation is important.
Some adolescents mature earlier or later than average, with a differential effect.
Early-maturing boys enjoy athletic, social, and community advantages. There may be greater anxiety because of sudden pubertal changes, at least for a while, and more pressure to act older than their age. In general, however, early maturation for boys is an advantage. Late-maturing boys suffer socially induced inferiority, which may carry over into adulthood. Girls who mature in elementary school tend to feel awkward and self-conscious because they are different.