Inventing Ourselves: The Secret Life of the Teenage Brain

Front

What is the teenage brain's primary characteristic during adolescence?

Back

The teenage brain undergoes significant development, particularly in areas related to decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

Front

Define 'impulse control' in the context of adolescent behavior.

Back

Impulse control refers to the ability to resist urges to act on immediate desires or emotions, which is often underdeveloped in teenagers.

Front

What role does gray matter play in brain development?

Back

Gray matter contains most of the brain's neuronal cell bodies and is crucial for processing information and executing functions.

Front

Explain the significance of brain scans in studying adolescent behavior.

Back

Brain scans help researchers visualize and understand the structural and functional changes in the adolescent brain, providing insights into behavior.

Front

What is the main argument presented by Steinberg regarding adolescent behavior?

Back

Steinberg argues that brain development should be considered when evaluating adolescent behavior, especially in legal contexts.

Front

What does it mean to 'act in the heat of the moment'?

Back

It refers to making impulsive decisions without fully considering the consequences, often driven by strong emotions.

Front

How does emotional regulation develop during adolescence?

Back

Emotional regulation improves as the brain matures, allowing teenagers to better manage their emotions and reactions.

Front

What is the purpose of studying the volume of gray matter in adolescents?

Back

Studying gray matter volume helps researchers understand the relationship between brain structure and behavioral changes during adolescence.

Front

Define 'adolescence'.

Back

Adolescence is the developmental stage between childhood and adulthood, typically ranging from ages 10 to 19.

Front

What is the impact of peer influence on adolescent decision-making?

Back

Peer influence can significantly affect adolescents' choices, often leading to riskier behaviors due to the desire for acceptance.