A popular theory in recent neuroscience proposes that slow development of the prefrontal cortex explains teenagers’ seemingly impulsive and risky behavior. An extensive literature review challenges that interpretation.
Drugs and alcohol
Updated ‘Treating & Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders’ Is Published
Oxford University Press has published the second edition of 'Treating and Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders,' an update to the acclaimed book.
Study Points to Better Strategies to Prevent Drug Addiction in Adolescents
A study finds that early drug use strongly predicts substance abuse only if it’s followed by continuing drug use. Early experimentation with alcohol or marijuana isn't necessarily a risk factor for addiction.
Issue Brief: The Evidence on Pictorial Warning Labels on Cigarettes
In an issue brief, part of a new series, Annenberg Public Policy Center research director Dan Romer reviews the evidence on the effectiveness of pictorial warning labels on cigarette packs.
Adolescents in the Digital Age: Special Journal Issue Focuses on Health
The journal Media and Communication has published a special issue on "Adolescents in the Digital Age: Effects on Health and Development," edited by APPC research director Dan Romer.
School drug tests ineffective but a ‘positive climate’ might work
A national study of teenagers suggests that school drug testing did not deter them from starting to smoke tobacco or marijuana or drink alcohol. But in high schools that had a “positive school climate,” teens were less likely to start smoke cigarettes or marijuana, according to the study, in the January issue of the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. The study compared the effectiveness over one year of school policies of student drug testing with a positive school climate.