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Can a teen think? Brain research shows a work in progress Your former 8-year-old got it, but now that he's a teen, he seems to fumble. Why? Dr. Jay Giedd is a neuroscientist at the National Institute of Mental Health. Earlier this decade, he spearheaded research showing that there is a wave of growth and change in the adolescent brain. He believes that what teens do during their adolescent years - whether it's playing sports or playing video games - can affect how their brains develop. Using MRI, he tracks brain development from early puberty until the mid-20s. Among his findings: The last building block to develop is wisdom. Information for this was found with the website of the Orange County-based The Birds and Bees Connection: birdsnbeesconnection.com. As noted in its November newsletter, this research raises the issues facing parents of teens about focus, forethought, impulse control, organization, judgment and motivation. In addition, a Q&A by Frontline with the doctor can be found at: pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/teenbrain/interviews/giedd.html For information on Dr. Giedd: intramural.nimh.nih.gov/research/pi/pi_giedd_j.html |
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