A site for parents and teens who want to be better informed about
drug abuse and addiction as it affects young people today.
brain
Adolescents at Risk for Alcohol Problems Exhibit Different Brain Functions
Posted on February 24, 2011
Adolescence is a time of increased brain activity. The prefrontal cortex is developing new, more advanced functioning relating to decision making, social understanding and the ability to see a situation from another person’s point of view. However, adolescence is also a time when many young people initiate alcohol use, which can alter the development taking place in the brain.
Adolescents with Family History of Alcohol Abuse More Likely to Develop Alcoholism
Posted on December 7, 2010
A new study has found that adolescents with a family history of alcohol abuse are at a significantly higher risk of developing alcoholism in the future. Adolescence is a time when the brain is changing and developing, mostly in the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with decision making and understanding. Adolescence is also a time when many people start drinking alcohol, which can be detrimental to the development of the brain.
Difference in Sensitivity to Alcohol between Adolescents and Adults Explored
Posted on December 3, 2010
It has long been known that teens are less sensitive to the motor-impairing effects of alcohol than adults, but researchers were previously unaware of the underlying mechanisms that make this so. A new study has discovered the particular cellular and molecular mechanisms that may cause reduced motor impairment in teens.
Early Marijuana Use and Amount of Marijuana Use May Affect Cognitive Function
Posted on November 21, 2010
Many research studies are adding to the growing body of evidence suggesting that young people who use marijuana are at risk of cognitive damage. A new study shows that those who start using marijuana at an early age and those who use the greatest amount of the drug may be the most impaired when it comes to cognition.
Heavy Drinking in Adolescents Can Seriously Alter Brain Development
Posted on October 20, 2010
A new study shows that heavy drinking and drug use by adolescents can lead to severe brain development problems. Robert J. Thoma, a clinical neuropsychologist and associate professor of psychiatry at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, said that although the effects of drugs and alcohol on adult cognition have been researched for some time, the same topic is just now beginning to receive attention among adolescents.
