Erin Hiley Sharp, Ph.D.University of New Hampshire, Department of

Family Studies

21st Century Community Learning Centers Summer Conference

1. Identify alternative choices

2. Identify consequences that may follow each choice

3. Evaluate the costs and benefits of each possible consequence

4. Assess the likelihood of each possible consequence

5. Combine all information and make decision

Peer influence

Attitudes toward risk

Future orientation

Brain development

“A tale of two brain systems”

“Critical period of brain development”

Major changes in brain during adolescence

(1) Developments in cognitive control system (prefrontal cortex)

• Decreases in gray matter (synaptic pruning)

• Increases in white matter (myelination)

So what?

Developing in logical reasoning

Reliance on other areas of the brain for decision making (amygdala)

Major changes in brain during adolescence

(2) Changes in socio-emotional system

• Reduction in dopamine receptors

• Increases in oxytocin receptors

Dopamine = “feel good” neurotransmitter

Limbic system – pleasure center

What does this have to do with adolescents?

Oxytocin “love hormone” – social bonding

What does this have to do with adolescents?

Driven to seek sensation and novelty

Influenced heavily by peers

Hot/cold cognition

What are some implications of this research for your

work and interactions with youth?

Small-group discussion: What can WE do to improve the

decision making of adolescents?

Where/How can WE make a difference?

•Surround youth with caring adults

•Include adolescents in discussions about a variety of topics

•Encourage adolescents to think independently and develop their own ideas.

•Assist adolescents in setting their own goals and thinking about future.

•Assist adolescents in re-evaluating poorly made decisions.

•Reduce risks and reduce exposure to potentially addictive substances

•Help avoid “use it or lose it”

Contact Information:

Erin Hiley Sharperin.sharp@unh.edu

603-862-2151