Topic 2; pre-adult brain development - applications

Question 1

what is the graduated driving licence scheme?

Answer 1

• a system implemented in the US
• young drivers weren’t allowed their full licence until they completed a probationary period by which their driving rights were restricted
• not being able to drive between 10pm and 5am
• passengers under the age of 20 were banned
• McCartt reported a significant reduction in the crashes of young drivers who went through this probationary period

Question 2

how does operant conditioning encourage the reduction in risk taking behaviour?

Answer 2

parents can discuss the potential consequences of dangerous driving such as losing their licence and getting into an accident where there are serious injuries involved; positive reinforcement can also be used by rewarding their children for making safe decisions

Question 3

how does social learning theory and conformity influence risk taking behaviour?

Answer 3

by ensuring that individuals are surrounded by positive social networks may protect them against risky behaviour; individuals are more likely to partake in risky behaviour if they are peer pressured as this increases the reward of taking risks
young people need to be surrounded by positive role models; if they see their parents driving safely they are more likely going to in the future