Clare F McCann, Michelle L Byrne, Marjolein E A Barendse, Elizabeth Anne Shirtcliff, Megan M Herting, Katherine L Bottenhorn, Ronald E Dahl, Anne-Lise Goddings, Victoria Guazzelli Williamson, Cecile D Ladouceur, Niamh MacSweeney, Lucía Magis-Weinberg, Ethan M McCormick, Megan W Patterson, Jennifer A Silvers, Sarah Whittle, Jennifer H Pfeifer, Theresa W Cheng
Longitudinal measurement and modeling are vital for understanding pubertal processes and their effects on neural and behavioral development. This practical guide for developmental scientists incorporates findings from recent large, longitudinal studies. It reviews best practices for longitudinal studies of puberty in humans, beginning with a brief overview of puberty and two overlapping processes: adrenarche and gonadarche. It emphasizes the importance of longitudinal research in assessing factors such as pubertal tempo (rate of progression). Methods for measuring puberty in humans are discussed, along with considerations for each. The article outlines statistical modeling strategies for developmental research and highlights the roles of sex, gender, adverse experiences, and racial/ethnic identity in shaping pubertal trajectories. A resource list of key papers and data analysis code is provided to support research. This paper guides research efforts to enhance understanding of pubertal development.