Published:
Risk Taking in Adolescence
Steinberg challenges the traditional idea that adolescent risk-taking comes from ignorance and irrational thought processes. Studies reveal that by age 15, adolescents would have already developed logical reasoning capabilities similar to those of adults and they understand that risks are associated with their choices.
However, their behavior is often influenced by the unevenness between two developing brain systems: the socioemotional and cognitively controlled systems. Puberty triggers increased sensitivity in the socioemotional system that controls gratification-seeking behaviors and emotional responses. The cognitive-control system, which manages planning and self-regulation, develops through the early 20s.
The displacement between their developing brain systems increases adolescents' vulnerability to risky behavior when they interact with their peers or face emotional stimuli. Steinberg stated that risk education-based youth interventions have not brought significant outcomes. He advocates for contextual strategies to the point where it includes higher cigarette prices, stricter driving regulations, and improved mental health services to minimize spur-of-the-moment behavior opportunities during adolescence.
Reference: Steinberg, L. (2007). Risk taking in adolescence. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 16(2), 55–59. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2007.00475.