Neurobiology of Adolescent Brain

Catalog description

Neurobiology of Adolescent Brain is an upper-level undergraduate seminar with a special emphasis on development that occurs in the brain during adolescence. Adolescence, the period of life following childhood when major biological, hormonal, and physical changes take place in preparation to becoming a stable, independent adult, is seen across mammalian species. After growing during perinatal life and childhood, the brain continues to mature and remodel during adolescence. The adolescent brain can learn, change and adapt to challenging environments, achieve physical accomplishments, and undertake creative activities. Adolescents are exposed to stresses of changing from childhood into adulthood, making them more prone to develop mental disorders including anxiety, depression, addiction. Compared to adults, teenagers express stronger emotions, make impulsive decisions, and get involved in high-risk activities and risky behavior.