Adolescent Risk-Taking

A recent study published in ScienceDirect, conducted by Steinberg et al., proposes a framework for theory and research on developmental risk-taking They explore the two following questions:

1. Why does risk-taking increase between childhood and adolescence?
2. Why does risk-taking decline between adolescence and adulthood?

Mature Prefrontal Cortex Activity

This study ultimately shows that the initial increase in risk-taking is the result of the brain's socio-emotional system leading to an increased desire in reward, especially in the presence of friends or in social situations. This desire is fueled by the significant remolding of the brain's dopaminergic system during and throughout puberty. The decline of adolescent risk-taking occurs when the brain's cognitive control system develops even further, increasing individual capacity for self-regulation and, essentially, common sense or a higher regard for safety over social reward. The changes are mirrored by visible and functional changes in the prefrontal cortex as well as its connection to other important brain regions. For all of the reasons cited above, mid-range adolescence has been proven to be the time for highest risky and reckless behavior.


To view the full Steinberg et al. article, follow this link.