Why Teens Are Impulsive, Addiction-Prone And Should Protect Their Brains

(NPR, April 15) Dr. Frances Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain and a neuroscientist, explains that teen brains aren't fully developed until their 20's, sometimes into the late 20's. The "insulation" built to protect the "wiring" of the brain, called myelin, can take years to develop. During this time, teens tend to be much more impulsive and participate in risky behavior. It's a great time for them to learn faster and absorb more information, but at the same time indulge in behavior that can be damaging to them, such as drug use. READ MORE.