Brain Science Catch-All

Question 1

Brain Pruning

Answer 1

• Happens in Adolescence over many years
• Choosing circuits brain doesn’t need and carving down
• Use it or Lose It (learn languages, music before this starts happening)
• Myelination: integration of remaining circuits, 3000x faster connection!

Question 2

Impact of Sleep on Adolescent Brain

Answer 2

• Need a lot of sleep due to pruning
• PFC specifically needs a lot of sleep for decision-making and planning.
• Higher performing students tend to nap more
• Circadian Rhythm important

Question 3

Impact of Chronic Stress and Trauma on Brain Development (Also Brain in Your Palm)

Answer 3

• Stress Response ->

Amygdala signals threat ->

HPA System secretes Cortisol ->

Body focused brain & muscle energy on responding to threat at the expense of learning, memory, emotions, immune system, physical growth

Brain in Your Palm: Fist- brain’s integrated- grounded, relaxed-> Mindfulness, Self-Awareness, Rational Thought

Open Hand, Curled Thumb: Stress/Trauma-> PFC shuts down, lower brain takes over (Fight/Flight/Freeze)-> Intense Emotions, Impulsivity, Lack of Self-reflection,