Adolescent Maturity and the Brain: The Promise and Pitfalls of Neuroscience Research in Adolescent Health Policy

Abstract

Longitudinal neuroimaging studies demonstrate that the adolescent brain continues to mature well into the 20s. This has prompted intense interest in linking neuromaturation to maturity of judgment. Public policy is struggling to keep up with burgeoning interest in cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging. However, empirical evidence linking neurodevelopmental processes and adolescent real-world behavior remains sparse. Nonetheless, adolescent brain development research is already shaping public policy debates about when individuals should be considered mature for policy purposes. With this in mind, in this article we summarize what is known about adolescent brain development and what remains unknown, as well as what neuroscience can and cannot tell us about the adolescent brain and behavior. We suggest that a conceptual framework that situates brain science in the broader context of adolescent developmental research would help to facilitate research-to-policy translation. Furthermore, although contemporary discussions of adolescent maturity and the brain often use a deficit-based approach, there is enormous opportunity for brain science to illuminate the great strengths and potentialities of the adolescent brain. So, too, can this information inform policies that promote adolescent health and well-being.

Adolescents’ and young adults’ transition experiences when transferring from paediatric to adult care: A qualitative metasynthesis

“…The onset of preparation for transfer at 16 years seems to be appropriate, while the age of 18-19 years and older is estimated as the best time (McDonagh and Kelly, 2010). The issue of maturity is supported by neuroscience research that indicates that adolescent brain development extends into the early 20s (Johnson et al, 2009, Rutishauser et al, 2011. Care for the young adult should therefore be based on a combination of the patient's individual needs and biological age (Rapley and Davidson, 2010).…”

Sexuality Workshop For Adolescents: Participative Strategy For Collective Knowledge Construction

“…Three adolescents were from 16 to 17, and one was 19. According to chronological age, the adolescents were classified into groups based on the categories: Early, Middle and Late [3].…”

“…As regards the chronological period, adolescence is divided into early adolescence [10-14 years], middle-adolescence (15-17 years) and late adolescence (18-19 years) [3].…”

Close Friendships and Mental Health of Korean American Adolescents: The Moderating Effect of Personality

“…Asian cultural values place a strong emphasis on connectedness to the family so the developmental shift in emotional attachment from parents to peers may be especially challenging for these youth (Yeh, 2003). Yet problems in achieving this developmental task could affect the quality of their peer relationships and have significant implications for their mental health (Johnson, et al, 2009;Pugh & Hart, 1999). Only one study has examined the association between close peer relationships and the mental health of Korean American adolescents.…”