Search Results: making difficult decisions

In my opinion, every single one of these laws need to be updated in accordance to scientific facts, and not to be influenced by stigmas, which are arbitrary.

In my psychology course, we learned about the prefrontal cortex and executive functioning. We learned that the brain isn't fully developed until about 25 years of age, which significantly affects our ability in regards to decision making.

The age of "18" is an arbitrary figure, and science shows there isn't much of a difference between the 16 and 18 year old brain.

Then why do laws still permit vulnerable 18yr olds to such possible dangers? In my opinion, with the old logic, they might as well sell cigarettes, lower age consent, and draft 15 and 16 year olds to war. That just doesn't make sense. INCREASE it.

An excerpt from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services:

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The prefrontal cortex, the part of the frontal lobes lying just behind the forehead, is often referred to as the “CEO of the brain.” This brain region is responsible for cognitive analysis and abstract thought, and the moderation of “correct” behavior in social situations. The prefrontal cortex takes in information from all of the senses and orchestrates thoughts and actions to achieve specific goals.

The prefrontal cortex is one of the last regions of the brain to reach maturation. This delay may help to explain why some adolescents act the way they do. The so-called “executive functions” of the human prefrontal cortex include:

+ Focusing attention

+ Organizing thoughts and problem solving

+ Foreseeing and weighing possible consequences of behavior

+ Considering the future and making predictions

+ Forming strategies and planning

+ Ability to balance short-term rewards with long term goals

+ Shifting/adjusting behavior when situations change

+ Impulse control and delaying gratification

+ Modulation of intense emotions

+ Inhibiting inappropriate behavior and initiating appropriate behavior

+ Simultaneously considering multiple streams of information when faced with complex and challenging information

This brain region gives an individual the capacity to exercise “good judgment” when presented with difficult life situations. Brain research indicating that brain development is not complete until near the age of 25, refers specifically to the development of the prefrontal cortex.

Source: link

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What are your thoughts?