ABSTRACT
Growth and maturation do not follow the same time clock. They are related, occur concurrently, and interact but they refer to specific processes which are each subject to genetic and environmental influences. The primary distinction is that all healthy children attain maturity whereas adult body size, body shape, and body composition vary widely. The common point of reference is chronological age. To provide a sound foundation for interpretation of the morphology and physiology of the youth athlete, this chapter critically examines methods of assessing growth and maturity status and explores developmental changes in body size, body shape, and body composition.
