Anyway, the writers of this article studied a research paper conducted by psychiatrist Gregory Burns, in which they polled 91 students aged 12 to 18 and asked them what kinds of risky behavior they partake in on a regular basis. After the students completed the surveys, the researchers did brain scans on them, and the results were surprising to say the least. As it turns out, contrary to popular belief, the students that admitted to partaking in the most reckless activities were also the ones with the highest amounts of white matter in the brain.
Talk about a shocker.
The writers of the article went on to explain how teenagers that are too mature for their age tend to test their adult-like limits in order to find a comfortable living niche that accounts for their untimely maturity. This could easily be misunderstood as reckless behavior. I get that; there certainly is that select group of reckless, misunderstood kids that act out just because they want to know what they're capable of.. In my opinion, that is the group of kids that this article is referring to as recklessly mature. There is also that group of incredibly stupid teenagers that make impossibly unintelligent decisions just to fit in and get attention. In my opinion, that is the group of kids that wish this article was referring to them.
I'm still not so sure if I agree with everything this article says, but it certainly was an interesting read and I'm glad that a lot of "misunderstood," stereotypical teenage behavior is finally being brought into the light and understood. What I'm trying to say is, the next time your parents yell at you for doing something stupid, you've got a pretty good excuse.
6 comments:
I suppose this all kind of depends on how we define maturity. Yes, if it is defined on the basis of some kind of "white" brain activity, then who am I to argue with science? However, I for one believe that maturity is more than a combination of brain signals. It comes from the actions we take, the way we present ourselves, and the ways in which we react to others. Certain types of risky behavior can hardly be representations of one's childishness, but I certain feel that other types can. I dunno!
I can definitely see what you're trying to say. Some kids feel so grown up that they feel they are entitled to all of life's "pleasures." It's funny how we talked about how the brain isn't fully developed until the age of 25 just today, as well as how the thought of kids being able to make decisions and form an opinion seems to be of some concern today. I feel that people incorrectly associate maturity with morality. I know plenty of kids that are on their way to Harvard and Yale but still choose to do things that are "crazy." They know the consequences of their actions, they know they have other things they could be doing other than partying, but they want to feel "like a teenager." Then there are others -- those who are really innocent but never be a "bad kid." There may be gray matter in our heads, but we know what's really right and what's really wrong. We just choose to stray from it. Even after our 25th.
Though I also was surprised at first, on second thought it makes a lot of sense. Risks are a sign of maturity, because it shows that you are separating yourself from your parents and developing your own mind. Also, partaking in risky behavior typically involves in a mild amount of intelligence, assuming they don't want to get caught. Though truthfully, I have heard of many risky adventures from my peers who do very stupid risky things. This is why I can see why you would be shocked.
I once spoke with a woman with a daughter who was soon to be a teenager, who said that she fully approves of teenage rebellion, because she thinks that her daughter should be taking steps in her own direction. I agree with this woman, because realizing that your parents can no longer micro-manage your life is the first step in the right direction. (Maybe I overboarded on the walking analogy). Anyway, good post Ruchi.
I agree with Maeli that it is a question of how one defines maturity. Using her definition, I don't think you can simplify it to amounts of gray vs. white matter. Also, I am leaning towards questioning exactly what the study results mean. Perhaps I simply didn't see it, but the research paper appeared to have no explanation of how the questionaire works, how it tests for risky behavior. Plus, how do they account for study participants who may have lied.
I just think it is always a good idea to question everything. Other than that one explanation I wish they had, I believe it was well done research, so I am still inclined to agree with the conclusions of the Gregory Burns.
I was equally surprised by the results of this research. I would have thought the exact opposite. I understand the rational behind the research, that the more "mature" kids want to test their adulthood and therefore take more risks. But, I also agree with Maeli. I don't think that maturity should be defined by how much white matter your brain has developed. Adults who's brain has the maximum amount of white matter can still be thought of as immature. Maturity, I think, is more about your actions, the decisions you make, and how you respond to difficult situations. Not necessarily to how much gray matter you have left in your brain.
It is fascinating, Ruchi. Nicely linked!
This is the kind of research that becomes a required part of the curriculum for "pre-service" teachers.
But how could this better focus on American life or themes from class? What is the "story" usually told about teenagers? Perhaps a little less summary and more of the above could make this post a bit stronger.
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