The Value Of RISKS


Recent studies in neuroscience and behavioral psychology are demonstrating that the origin of the “reckless” and “overly-emotional” teenager is far more complex – and important – than we once thought.


Early childhood development specialists once explained that the human brain had reached full growth by the time of puberty; however, the latest work by U. Penn. Neurology Department Chair Frances Jensen demonstrates that this growth doesn’t actually complete until our mid-20’s. Te prefrontal cortex – the region associated in decision-making, planning, and self-control – is the last part to solidify its neural connections in “myelination.”


While this leads to risky behavior, Jensen’s colleague, Daniel Romer, research director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center, thinks it’s more of a choice, not an impulse. “Te reason teens are doing all of this exploring and novelty-seeking is to build experience so that they can do a better job in making the difficult and risky decisions in later life - decisions like ‘Should I take this job?’ or ‘Should I marry this person?,” says Romer.


Te Max Planck Institute recently published insights that demonstrated teens don’t even want to know the risks involved in their activities; they are far more comfortable operating in ambiguous environments than previous generations. If they’re told the risks, it’s often “in one ear, and out the other.”


Tese researchers have numerous suggestions which attractions can leverage to support this period of rapid growth and reduce the risks of risk-taking.


So What Can We Do?


Romer notes risk-taking is essential in understanding the world and one’s place in it; so creating exhibits and environments that may give the adrenaline rush of risk, without the actual threat, can support neurological development.


What Can We Learn?


Jensen shares that today’s teenagers are far more interested in understanding themselves and their development than previous generations; so teaching about teenage neuroscience and development through exhibits and programs could greatly appeal to the demographics.


Your Next Steps


Te Max Plank Institute suggested, “A promising [opportunity] would be to give adolescents the opportunity to experience the consequences of their risky behavior in virtual environments,” or using video games – interactive exhibits – to demonstrate, rather than tell, consequences.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8