Flashcard: The Debt We Owe the Adolescent Brain

Front

What is pruning in the context of adolescent brain development?

Back

Pruning refers to the process by which the adolescent brain becomes more efficient by eliminating unused neural connections.

Front

How can risk-taking during adolescence lead to positive outcomes?

Back

Risk-taking can lead to innovation and creativity, as long as it is not lethal.

Front

What does it mean to streamline a process?

Back

To streamline means to make something more efficient or simple.

Front

What activity likely takes up the largest portion of an adolescent's daily routine?

Back

Sleep.

Front

Why is adolescent brain development important for future success?

Back

Adolescent brain development is crucial because it fosters risk-taking, which can lead to innovation.

Front

What is the role of the prefrontal cortex in adolescent brain development?

Back

The prefrontal cortex helps with decision-making and impulse control.

Front

Define the term 'neural connections'.

Back

Neural connections are the links between neurons that allow for communication within the brain.

Front

What is myelination and its significance in brain development?

Back

Myelination is the process of forming a myelin sheath around nerves, which increases the speed of neural communication.

Front

How does socializing impact adolescent brain development?

Back

Socializing can enhance cognitive abilities and emotional intelligence during adolescence.

Front

What is cognitive flexibility and why is it important?

Back

Cognitive flexibility is the ability to adapt thinking and behavior in response to changing situations; it's important for problem-solving and creativity.