Deck 10: D: Lifespan Development

Question 1

Parents and researchers alike know that adolescents are prone to engaging in risky behaviour.Describe some of the key factors that likely underlie some of the poor decision-making that occurs during this period of development.

Answer 1

- A good answer will include the following key points.The prefrontal cortex,which is the area involved with inhibition,planning,and self-control,is still developing in adolescents and as such,likely isn't imposing the same level of control that might be seen in a fully-developed adult
- The limbic areas,involved with reward,are well-developed in adolescents and likely lead to increased value being placed on reward
- Social factors (e.g. ,peer pressure)play a major role in the behaviour of adolescents.The presence or absence of other teenagers can greatly influence behaviour,leading individuals to engage in riskier behaviours than they might when acting alone.