Teen brains and decision-making – What teachers should know
It was once thought that human brains develop in a straight line as people grow from children to teens and adults. It was assumed that all brain parts develop gradually at the same pace. With advanced research on brain development, we now know this view is inaccurate. Studies have shown that teen brains are unique and that different parts of the brain develop at very different speeds, meaning that teen brains work quite differently than adult brains. For teachers, it's helpful to understand these unique features of teen brains, as it helps to better understand their decision-making and behavior. There are three main ways in which teen brains differ from adult brains. First, teen brains are more adaptable (or "plastic") than adult brains . Human brains constantly adapt based on what we do and think. For example, it has been observed that the brain areas responsible for spatial awareness are larger in London taxi drivers than in others. If people play musical instruments
