Adolescent neurological development and its implications for adolescent substance use prevention

J Prim Prev. 2008 Jan;29(1):5-35. doi: 10.1007/s10935-007-0119-3. Epub 2008 Jan 31.

Abstract

Recent technological advancements have facilitated the study of adolescent neurological development and its implications for adolescent decision-making and behavior. This article reviews findings from the adolescent neurodevelopment and substance use prevention literatures. It also discusses how findings from these two distinct areas of adolescent development can complement each other and be used to build more developmentally appropriate interventions for preventing adolescent substance use. Specifically, a combination of child-centered and family-based strategies is advocated based on extant neurological and prevention literature. EDITORS' STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS: Researchers are encouraged to take up the authors' challenge and study the links between adolescent neurological development/decision making ability and the long term efficacy of comprehensive interventions for preventing adolescent substance use.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Development*
  • Age Factors
  • Decision Making / drug effects
  • Decision Making / physiology
  • Family
  • Humans
  • Patient-Centered Care
  • Sex Factors
  • Substance-Related Disorders / prevention & control*