Psychological and social problems in children with premature adrenarche and precocious puberty

Early puberty, including premature adrenarche (PA) and precocious puberty (PP) can be a challenge for the practitioner as well as the parent and child. This chapter will focus on the Psychosocial problems that may be evident in children with PA or PP. To better Understand these issues, four specific areas will be addressed. First the chapter will focus on the existing empirical evidence of psychosocial problems in children with PA or PP and the limitations of these studies. Second, the chapter will address ways to better understand why certain psychosocial problems may occur in children with early puberty. The theoretical and empirical rationale for such problems will be discussed along with specific actions of hormones that may influence the brain and behavior. Third, implications for the practitioner caring for children with PA or PP will be addressed regarding psychosocial issues. Finally, directions for future research on psychosocial problems in children with PA or PP will be discussed.