In a new article based on a journal review, Dan Romer wrote about the problematic stereotype of the "wild teenage brain." He said much of what's mistaken for risky behavior is part of a normal exploratory drive.
Mental health
Podcast: Dan Romer on the Teenage Brain and Risk-Taking
APPC research director Dan Romer discussed a recent article contending that a lot of seemingly risky teen behavior often attributed to an imbalance in brain development is actually part of normal development.
Why Teens Take Risks: It’s Not a Deficit in Brain Development
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.
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.
More Gun Violence in Top PG-13 Films Than R-Rated Ones
The amount of gun violence in top-grossing PG-13 movies has continued to exceed the gun violence in the biggest box-office R-rated films, according to an APPC analysis published in Pediatrics. PG-13 movies also usually feature gun violence without showing consequences such as blood and suffering, researchers said.