APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. the stage of prepubertal development marked by the start of androgen secretion by the adrenal cortex and normally occurring between 6 to 8 years of age. Premature adrenarche, characterized by pubertal levels of adrenal androgens, is manifested by the early appearance of pubic hair. It may be associated with psychological disturbances. By parent report on the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, 44% of the children with premature adrenarche met the diagnostic criteria for psychological disorders, primarily anxiety disorders. The condition is also associated with self-reported depression and parent-reported behavior problems, as well as low scores on various intelligence tests.