Step 1: Understanding adolescent brain development.
During adolescence, different parts of the brain mature at different rates. Emotional and reward-related regions develop earlier than areas responsible for judgement and self-control.
Step 2: Role of amygdala.
The amygdala is associated with emotions, fear, pleasure, and reward processing. It develops faster during adolescence, leading to impulsive and risk-taking behavior.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, increased risk-taking behavior in adolescents is linked to faster development of the amygdala.