Briefly describe how risk-taking behavior in adolescence is connected to brain maturation.

Answer:

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Research indicates that the prefrontal cortex, or the area of the brain that assists in controlling impulses and emotion, is not fully mature in teenagers. As a result of the prefrontal cortex not maturing until later, adolescents may be more likely to engage in risky behavior as they may lack the ability to control emotions or delay gratification in times when this behavior is needed. Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Research indicates that the prefrontal cortex, or the area of the brain that assists in controlling impulses and emotion, may not be fully mature in teenagers. The frontal lobe may not fully develop until around the mid-20s. Thus, adolescents may be more likely to engage in risky behavior or to be impulsive.