Editor’s note: First in a series of three articles appearing in other publications on what scientists are learning about the brain and behavior through MRI imaging.
Teenage brains are still under construction. MRI imaging has found that while the areas of the brain associated with motor control and hand/eye coordination are fully developed, the parts associated with rational thinking and evaluating future consequences are half-baked.
The result: Even smart, well-behaved teenagers are motivated by emotion and pleasure, which can lead them to take dangerous risks.
Teens’ immature brains pose all sorts of dangers, on Philly.com.
Tomorrow: Brains of homicidal juveniles appear to be different
Co-parenting and Interactions with the Sociopath After the Divorce