What is the meaning of the number generated by the Tanner Stage Calculator?

Last updated on October 20, 2020

Question:

In the Tanner Stage Calculator, what is the number the Estimated Tanner Stage calculation generates? For instance, if the calculator says 3.8 what does it mean?

Answer:

The calculator is a small program that I wrote which takes all the secondary characteristics that are used to estimate Dr. Tanner’s stages of development. I weighted the responses. Those which are easiest to see and those which are most important in establishing a particular stage were given the highest weight. A 3.8 would mean that you are in stage three of development and will soon be moving into stage four. Stage 1 is for childhood. Stage 5 is for full maturity or adulthood. The end of stage 1 is when the first signs of puberty are seen. Stage 3 is generally when your growth spurt takes place.