Briefly describe how risk-taking behavior in adolescence is connected to brain maturation.

Research indicates that the prefrontal cortex, or the area of the brain that assists in controlling impulses and emotion, is not fully mature in teenagers. The brain's reward center also appears to be highly active in adolescence as well. As a result of cognitive immaturity, adolescents may be more likely to engage in risky behavior as they may lack the ability to control emotions or delay gratification in times when this behavior is needed.