Questions: Which of the following best explains the changes that occur during puberty? The hormones and behaviors that lead to puberty must be nurtured. The changes are too complex to be explained. There is a basic genetic program that controls puberty. Puberty is activated by moods.

The answer is the third one: There is a basic genetic program that controls puberty.

Explanation for each option:

1. The hormones and behaviors that lead to puberty must be nurtured.

   • This option suggests that external nurturing is necessary for puberty to occur. While environmental factors can influence the timing and experience of puberty, the fundamental process is driven by internal biological mechanisms.

2. The changes are too complex to be explained.

   • This option implies that the complexity of puberty makes it inexplicable. However, scientific research has provided substantial understanding of the biological processes involved in puberty, making this option incorrect.

3. There is a basic genetic program that controls puberty.

   • This is the correct answer. Puberty is primarily regulated by a genetic program that triggers the release of hormones, leading to the physical and cognitive changes associated with this developmental stage.

4. Puberty is activated by moods.

   • This option incorrectly attributes the onset of puberty to emotional states. While mood changes can occur during puberty due to hormonal fluctuations, they do not initiate the process.

Summary: The changes that occur during puberty are best explained by a basic genetic program that controls the release of hormones and the subsequent physical and cognitive developments.