Final answer:
During adolescence, the increase in white matter in the brain leads to improved thinking and processing skills, with changes like more efficient myelination and synaptic pruning.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that during adolescence, there is an increase in the white matter of the brain which allows for significant improvements in thinking and processing skills. This developmental phase is characterized by an increase in myelination, resulting in more efficient brain function. Changes in cognitive abilities are not necessarily due to an increase in mental capacity, but rather due to improvements in speed and efficiency of existing skills. Adolescents develop the capability for abstract thinking and are better at logical reasoning, decision-making, and evaluating risks and rewards.
During adolescence, the white matter of the brain does indeed increase, and this increase allows for significant improvements in thinking and processing skills. White matter refers to the nerve fibers in the brain that are responsible for transmitting signals between different regions. As white matter increases, the communication between different parts of the brain improves, leading to enhanced cognitive abilities. For example, this increased white matter allows for better coordination between processing, memory, and decision-making areas of the brain.