What type of changes do hormones trigger during puberty?

Hormones play a crucial role during puberty by triggering various changes in the body and behavior. The correct answer encompasses both physical and behavioral changes, reflecting the comprehensive impact of hormonal fluctuations during this developmental stage.

Physically, puberty involves a range of transformations such as growth spurts, the development of secondary sexual characteristics, and changes in body composition. For example, increased levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone lead to the maturation of reproductive organs and the emergence of features such as breast development in girls and increased muscle mass in boys.

Behaviorally, the hormonal changes also influence mood, social interactions, and exploration of identity. Adolescents might experience heightened emotions and shifts in their interests and social behaviors as they navigate the complexities of this developmental phase. These combined effects lead to noticeable changes in both how individuals act and how they interact with their environment and peers.

The other answer options focus either solely on emotional, physical, or intellectual changes, which fails to capture the multifaceted impact that hormonal changes have during puberty. By recognizing that both physical and behavioral changes occur, a more accurate understanding of puberty's effects on development is achieved.