15. How might adolescents’ tendency to engage in such risky behaviors as unsafe sex and experimental drug use reflect brain development during childhood and adolescence?

a) The limbic system does not develop fully until early adulthood; adolescents therefore have a poor understanding of their own emotions
b) the prefrontal cortex matures slowly, slowing adolescents' ability to think rationally
c) The corpus callosum is still developing during adolescence, impeding communication between the two hemispheres of the brain
d) The left hemisphere matures more slowly than the right, delaying the development of logical thinking abilities

I think it should be B. But I am not 100% sure.

I think it's B, too! You're correct, Muhammad.

Thank you.

The correct answer is b) the prefrontal cortex matures slowly, slowing adolescents' ability to think rationally.

During childhood and adolescence, the brain undergoes significant development and changes that can influence behavior. One area of the brain that plays a crucial role in decision-making and impulse control is the prefrontal cortex.

The prefrontal cortex, located at the front of the brain, is responsible for higher cognitive functions, such as reasoning, planning, and understanding consequences. It helps individuals think through actions, consider long-term outcomes, and make rational decisions.

However, the prefrontal cortex develops relatively slowly compared to other areas of the brain. It continues to develop and mature throughout adolescence and into early adulthood. This means that during adolescence, the prefrontal cortex is not fully developed, and therefore, adolescents may have difficulty thinking rationally and controlling impulsive behaviors.

As a result, adolescents may be inclined to engage in risky behaviors like unsafe sex and experimental drug use. They may have difficulty considering the potential consequences of their actions and may prioritize short-term rewards over long-term risks.

It's important to note that brain development is complex and involves interactions between multiple brain regions, so other factors may also contribute to adolescent risk-taking behavior. However, the slower maturation of the prefrontal cortex is a significant factor in understanding why adolescents may engage in risky behaviors.