Why Do Adolescents Suck At Impulse Control and Sound Decision Making? Answer Is Found in the Brain!
You might have noticed that sometimes your friends (or even you!) make choices that seem a bit, well, risky. Ever wondered why that happens? A big part of it has to do with how your brain is developing, especially something called myelination.
What is Myelination?
So, what’s this fancy word, myelination? Basically, it’s the process where your brain creates a protective covering around the nerve fibers, kind of like putting insulation around electrical wires. This covering helps messages travel faster between different parts of your brain. Think of it as upgrading your brain’s internet speed—faster connections mean better communication!
This process starts early in life but kicks into high gear during adolescence. It’s like your brain is getting a serious makeover to prepare for adulthood.
The Prefrontal Cortex: The Last One to Develop
Now, here’s the kicker: the prefrontal cortex is the part of your brain that helps with impulse control, decision-making, and weighing risks. And guess what? It’s the last part of your brain to fully develop—often not until your mid-20s! That means during your teen years, while other parts of your brain are racing ahead, this crucial area is still catching up.
This is why you might find yourself and your friends sometimes acting on impulse—like saying something without thinking it through or making snap decisions. You’re not just being reckless; it’s part of how your brain is still developing!
How Does This Impact Teen Risk-Taking?
So, what does all this mean for your everyday life? Here are a few ways that the ongoing development of the prefrontal cortex can affect your decisions:
1. Higher Risk-Taking Behavior
Since your prefrontal cortex is still developing, it might be harder to evaluate risks. You might find yourself saying “yes” to things without fully considering the consequences. This can lead to trying new things, but it can also mean getting into situations that aren’t safe.
2. Impulsivity
If you’ve ever made a snap decision—like impulsively agreeing to do something you later regretted—you’re not alone! That’s your brain’s way of showing that it’s still learning how to pause and think things through. Sometimes, it feels more exciting to go with your gut than to weigh all the options.
3. Emotional Reactions
Your prefrontal cortex also plays a role in regulating emotions. Because it’s still developing, you might find that your feelings can sometimes take over, leading to reactions that feel a bit intense. This is totally normal, but it’s good to know that your ability to manage those emotions will improve as your brain matures.
Making Better Decisions
Even though your brain is still developing, there are definitely ways to help yourself make better decisions and practice impulse control:
1. Pause Before You Act
When you’re faced with a choice, try to take a moment to think about the possible outcomes. Ask yourself questions like, “What could go wrong?” or “How will this affect me and others?” A little pause can make a big difference.
2. Talk It Out
If you’re unsure about a decision, talk to a trusted friend or adult. Getting another perspective can help you see things more clearly and make a more informed choice.
3. Set Boundaries
If you know certain situations make it harder for you to control your impulses (like being around certain friends), try to set boundaries. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can make it easier to make better decisions.
4. Learn from Experience
Everyone makes mistakes—that’s part of growing up! Instead of beating yourself up over a bad choice, think about what you can learn from it. Reflecting on past experiences can help you make better choices in the future.
Knowledge is POWER!
Understanding myelination and how your brain develops during adolescence can help explain why you and your friends sometimes act on impulse or take risks. Your brain is still learning how to make those thoughtful decisions, and that’s totally okay! By practicing self-reflection and seeking support, you can develop better decision-making skills over time. Just remember, your brain is on a journey, and you’re not alone in figuring it all out. Keep exploring, learning, and growing—you’ve got this!
