Importance of investing in adolescence from a developmental science perspective

Nature. 2018 Feb 21;554(7693):441-450. doi: 10.1038/nature25770.

Abstract

This review summarizes the case for investing in adolescence as a period of rapid growth, learning, adaptation, and formational neurobiological development. Adolescence is a dynamic maturational period during which young lives can pivot rapidly-in both negative and positive directions. Scientific progress in understanding adolescent development provides actionable insights into windows of opportunity during which policies can have a positive impact on developmental trajectories relating to health, education, and social and economic success. Given current global changes and challenges that affect adolescents, there is a compelling need to leverage these advances in developmental science to inform strategic investments in adolescent health.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Adolescent Development*
  • Adolescent Health*
  • Animals
  • Behavioral Research / trends*
  • Brain / growth & development
  • Brain / physiology
  • Health Policy
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology
  • Models, Animal
  • Puberty / physiology
  • Sexual Maturation / physiology