Final answer:
Teen impulsive behavior and risk-taking are influenced by ongoing brain development, specifically in the frontal lobes, and a heightened response to rewards. Evolutionary factors may play a role, and most parent-teen conflicts are typically over daily issues, with impulsive behavior lessening in emerging adulthood.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why Do Teenagers Have Trouble Controlling Impulsive Behavior?
Teenagers often exhibit risk-taking behavior and have difficulty with impulse control. This can partially be explained by brain development which is still underway during adolescence. The frontal lobes, responsible for judgment, impulse control, and planning, mature into early adulthood. Risk-taking in teens may also be seen as a quest for identity and independence, further amplified by peer influences and emotional fluctuations due to hormonal changes. Additionally, evolutionary perspectives suggest that adolescents are programmed to be risk-takers, as this willingness to take risks may have helped historically in leaving the family of origin to start a new one. Contrary to the myth of incessant teenage rebellion, research shows most teen-parent conflicts are over everyday issues and do not signify pervasive 'adolescent storm and stress'.
Neuroscience research indicates that while adolescents can evaluate risks and rewards similarly to adults, the reward center in their brains is more active during risk-taking activities. Therefore, impulsive behavior in teens might be correlated with seeking sensations from rewarding experiences, rather than a lack of understanding of potential risks. This behavior tends to subside as they move into the next stage of development, emerging adulthood. Throughout this time, young people continue to explore their identity, especially focused on work and love.