Jessica, 4 years old, is unwilling to wait until Christmas morning to open her gifts.What neural characteristic can explain why she is having difficulty delaying gratification?
A) neurons in the prefrontal cortex are fully myelinated
B) neurons in the prefrontal cortex are not fully myelinated
C) neurons in the cerebellum are fully myelinated
D) neurons in the cerebellum are not fully myelinated

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The prefrontal cortex is the area of the brain responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and delaying gratification. In early childhood, the neurons in this area are not fully myelinated, meaning that the connections between neurons are not yet fully formed. This can make it more difficult for young children like Jessica to resist immediate rewards and delay gratification.

Jessica, 4 Years Old, Is Unwilling to Wait Until Christmas