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Welcome to Laurie Goodman's blog. I use this space to share news and opinions about education and schools in Ridgewood, the state of New Jersey and the nation, in addition to other issues I'm personally interested in. I invite you to share your thoughts, feelings, questions or opinions, too, by posting comments on any blog entry. Please observe basic courtesy -- keep your comments focused on issues, no personal attacks or bullying, please. Contact me directly at: lauriegood@mac.com

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

The Adolescent Brain: A Work in Progress

The following information was provided by the Ridgewood Municipal Alliance (on which I also participate), regarding a program for interested parents.

Have you ever wondered why teenagers act the way they do? According to recent studies and neuro-imaging research, the prefrontal cortex of the human brain, which controls planning, emotion, impulse control, and the ability to assess future consequences, is not fully developed until one is in their early- to mid-twenties.

Come and learn about the adolescent brain at the GW Middle School Auditorium 7 PM on September 14, 2010. This program is open to all parents.

The presentation will help parents to understand:

• How can teens be so clever, accomplished, and responsible -- and reckless at the same time?
• What part of the brain is shutting down during this time of change?
• Why does your teen respond so strongly to graphic images?
• Your role as a parent during this incredible time of change in your young person’s brain
• Why adolescence is a risk-taking period during which teens are more likely to try drugs.
• What influences addiction in a young person?

Questions, please call the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department at 201-670-5560.

Presented by Dee DeBernardis from the Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources, a program of Children’s Aid and Family Services. Funding provided by GCADA – NJ Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse and the Ridgewood Municipal Alliance

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

you should ask the speaker about her credentials to discuss "the brain"

Laurie said...

I don't have the specifics, but I know Ms. DeBernardis has quite extensive experience working with drug and alcohol addiction. I believe she will combine her first-hand experience with research findings and information from other sources (presumably scientific, since that is the theme of the event).