Neuroscience- the developing adolescent brain- Dr. Hon Flashcards
what is Adolescence?
the stage of human development we experience during the transition from childhood into adulthood
during adolescence, the brain undergoes some amazing changes due to?
a combo of genetic and environmental factors
what developmental changes in adolescence are seen?
Romantic motivation sexual interest emotional intensity changes in sleep/arousal regulation appetite risk for psychological disorders increase in risk taking, novelty seeking, sensation seeking (reward-seeking)
what changes in the frontal lobes are seen in adolescence?
volume increases and peaks at around 11-12 y/o. then decreases throughout teenage years and 20’s
what occurs during adolescence in the frontal lobes?
neuronal overproduction in the frontal lobes stops and SELECTION of certain neuronal connections begins. selection deteremined by the experiences
what does the molding of neuronal connections during adolescence set?
the pattern of configuration for the reminder of adult life
what is Frontalization?
more dependence on the frontal lobes to organize and control behavior as individuals pass through teenage years
what does Frontalization mean in terms of decision making and emotions?
this means the individual will make decisions, control emotions, and regulate impulses consistent with their surrounding culture.
what is the amygdala involved in?
learning and bringing forth emotional responses (ESPECIALLY NEGATIVE RESPONSES) in response to various stimuli.
Ugly amygdala
what is the nucleus accumbens involved in? and stimulated by?
stimulated by dopamine ( dopa is a pleasure NT)
nucleus accumbens is stimulated in anticipation of a reward or pleasure
what change in dopamine receptors is seen in the nucleus accumbens during adolescence?
the density of dopamine receptors is this area is the highest during this time. may be a major contributing factor to heightened risk of substance abuse and dependence at this age
what are typical teenage behaviors seen? due to adolescent brain development?
highly reactive emotional centers push youth to explore and take risks”cool cognition vs. hot cognition”
development of sex-specific brain structures- increased attraction to opposite sex and geting their attention
what age is considered a dangerous/vulnerable period of time with regard to the development of psychological disorders?
15-19 years
**As the brain learns to deal with life and solve problems, the patterns it establishes affects what?
brain function, further engraining the pattern
there is strong evidence that learning plays a significant role in the development of what?
psychological disorders
