Rafael is going through puberty. Which of the following can he expect to occur during this time?

• A. A decline in cognitive abilities
• B. A reduction in sexual maturation
• C. A decrease in bone density
• D. An increase in growth hormone leading to a rapid growth spurt

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that puberty is a developmental stage characterized by physical, hormonal, and psychological changes as the body matures sexually and physically.
2. Recognize that during puberty, the body increases the production of growth hormone, which stimulates rapid physical growth, often called a growth spurt.
3. Identify that cognitive abilities generally improve or remain stable during puberty, so a decline in cognitive abilities is not expected.
4. Note that sexual maturation increases during puberty, meaning reproductive organs develop and secondary sexual characteristics appear, so a reduction in sexual maturation is incorrect.
5. Understand that bone density typically increases during puberty due to growth and hormonal changes, so a decrease in bone density is not expected.