Teen brains are wired for addiction

The prefrontal cortex, which helps youth learn how to solve problems, set goals, and control their feelings, matures until around age 25. Since this part of the brain hasn’t fully developed in teens, they rely more on the limbic system to make decisions, which is tied to rewards and emotions. This means teens are literally wired to seek out excitement and instant gratification.

Rewarding activities cause the brain to release a “feel-good” chemical called dopamine, but alcohol and drugs cause a stronger dopamine surge. Over time, repeated use can “teach” the brain to seek substances over healthier rewards – leading to addiction. Teens have a higher risk of addiction because their limbic systems are very sensitive to dopamine.

Teen brains are wired for addiction

The prefrontal cortex, which helps youth learn how to solve problems, set goals, and control their feelings, matures until around age 25. Since this part of the brain hasn’t fully developed in teens, they rely more on the limbic system to make decisions, which is tied to rewards and emotions. This means that teens are literally wired to seek out excitement and instant gratification.

Rewarding activities cause the brain to release a “feel-good” chemical called dopamine, but alcohol and drugs cause a stronger dopamine surge. Over time, repeated use can “teach” the brain to seek substances over healthier rewards – leading to addiction. Teens have a higher risk of addiction because their limbic systems are very sensitive to dopamine.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Help delay drinking. When you help your child delay drinking until age 21, you help protect them from developing substance misuse problems as they transition into adulthood and beyond.

Learn more about how the changes happening in the adolescent brain affect their behaviors and what parents need to know about the teen brain.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Help delay drinking. When you help your child delay drinking until age 21, you help protect them from developing substance misuse problems as they transition into adulthood and beyond.

Learn more about how the changes happening in the adolescent brain affect their behaviors and what parents need to know about the teen brain.