Comprehension Questions

Front

What is the limbic system?

Back

The limbic system is a complex set of structures in the brain that deals with emotions and memory. It plays a key role in the experience of pleasure and reward.

Front

What is the prefrontal cortex?

Back

The prefrontal cortex is the part of the brain located at the front, responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and regulating social behavior.

Front

What is the 'dual systems model' in adolescent brain development?

Back

The dual systems model suggests that during adolescence, the limbic system matures faster than the prefrontal cortex, leading to increased risk-taking behavior.

Front

What does 'developmental mismatch' refer to in the context of adolescent brain development?

Back

Developmental mismatch refers to the imbalance between the maturity of the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex, which can lead to impulsive behavior in adolescents.

Front

What is phrenology?

Back

Phrenology is a historical theory that claimed specific mental faculties and character traits are associated with different areas of the brain.

Front

What is the significance of the 2014 analysis conducted by Kate Mills and her team?

Back

The 2014 analysis aimed to provide evidence for the theories of adolescent brain development proposed by Steinberg and Casey, focusing on the maturity of the limbic system.

Front

What does it mean when we say adolescents 'get a kick out of taking risks'?

Back

It means that adolescents experience positive emotions or excitement when engaging in risky behaviors.

Front

What is the role of the prefrontal cortex in regulating behavior?

Back

The prefrontal cortex helps inhibit impulsive actions and allows for better decision-making, especially in risky situations.

Front

How do the limbic system and prefrontal cortex interact during adolescence?

Back

The limbic system often drives emotional responses and rewards risk-taking, while the prefrontal cortex is still developing the ability to control impulses.

Front

What evidence supports the idea that the limbic system matures earlier than the prefrontal cortex?

Back

Research, including MRI studies, shows that the brain's reward and emotion systems develop before the control systems of the prefrontal cortex.