1-072 - Addressing Complexities of Dual-Systems Models of Adolescent Risk-Taking: Advancements in Neuroimaging Research

Session Type: Paper Discussion Symposium

Integrative Statement

Dual systems models are prominent theoretical perspectives guiding studies on adolescent brain development and risk-taking. According to such models, the brain’s limbic system, involved in emotionally-driven reward processing, has a distinct developmental trajectory relative to prefrontal and higher cortical networks, associated with cognitive control (Casey et al., 2008; Steinberg, 2008). The dissimilar developmental timing of the limbic system in relation to prefrontal cortex is believed to contribute to adolescent health risk behaviors, such as alcohol and drug use and unsafe sex (Bava & Tapert, 2010). Although empirical evidence supports the developmental shift between reward sensitivity and cognitive control (e.g., Harden & Tucker-Drob, 2011; Steinberg et al., 2008), dual systems models often fail to account for the complexities of many brain-behavior associations. For example, a substantial proportion of youth progress through adolescence and early adulthood without engaging in dangerous risk behaviors, and additional research is needed to identify protective factors underlying this resilience (Schulenberg, 2006). To build upon and advance current perspectives on dual systems models, the purpose of this symposium is to present multidisciplinary, neurodevelopmental research spanning four topic areas: 1) developmental trends in structural brain imaging and resting state connectivity; 2) age-related shifts supporting the triadic systems model; 3) inhibitory control and reward responsivity among resilient youth; and 4) neural correlates of risk-taking across social contexts. Strategies on how innovative neuroimaging research can benefit the study of adolescent risk-taking will be highlighted. Our discussant, an international expert on adolescent brain development, will set the stage for audience discussion.

Sub Unit

• Neurobiological Mechanisms

Chair

• Meghan E. Martz, University of Michigan

Individual Presentations

• The Longitudinal Development of Dorsal Versus Ventral Striatal Structure and Function in Healthy Adolescents - Presenting Author: Monica Luciana, University of Minnesota

• Age-Related Shift from Balance to Imbalance in Reward and Threat Neural Systems in Young Adolescents - Presenting Author: Moriah E. Thomason, Wayne State University; Hilary A. Marusak, Wayne State University

• Neural Correlates of Resilience: Inhibitory Control and Reward Responsivity among Youth at High Risk for Substance Abuse - Presenting Author: Meghan E. Martz, University of Michigan; Mary M. Heitzeg, University of Michigan

• Social Contextual Effects on Brain Functioning Related to Risky Decisions and Outcomes in Adolescents - Presenting Author: Jennifer Pfeifer, University of Oregon; Shannon J. Peake, University of Oregon; Jessica E. Flannery, University of Oregon; John C. Flournoy, University of Oregon; Philip A. Fisher, University of Oregon

Discussant

• Ronald E Dahl, University of California, Berkeley