PSY 252 Module 06: Teen Brain Development

Key Points Overview

• Focus on brain development during teenage years.
• Examines neurological, psychological, and behavioral changes.

Brain Development Stages

• Adolescence: Crucial period for brain development.
  • Significant growth and development in the frontal lobe.
  • Maturation of the prefrontal cortex.

Neurological Changes

• Synaptic Pruning:
  • Reduction in the number of synapses.
  • Increases efficiency of synaptic connections.
• Myelination:
  • Development of the myelin sheath.
  • Enhances the speed of neural transmission.

Psychological Changes

• Cognitive Abilities:
  • Improvement in problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Development of abstract thinking.
• Risk-Taking Behavior:
  • Increased tendency for risk-taking due to ongoing development of the prefrontal cortex.

Behavioral Changes

• Social Development:
  • Increased importance of peer relationships.
  • Development of identity and independence.
• Emotional Regulation:
  • Greater emotional intensity and variability.
  • Developing skills for managing emotions.

Challenges in Teen Brain Development

• Vulnerability to Mental Health Issues:
  • Higher risk for developing mental health disorders.
  • Importance of supportive environments and early interventions.

Summary

• Teenage years are a transformative period for brain development.
• Understanding these changes can aid in supporting adolescents through this critical developmental phase.