Beautiful Brain By David Dobbs Summary

In “Beautiful Brains” (2011), an article published in National Geographic magazine about teenage brain development, David Dobbs discusses what we can learn about the teenage brain from science, especially why teens are prone to acting impulsively and taking more risks than adults. He develops and supports this idea by referencing research that examines and compares the behavior of teens. His purpose is to inform the reader about teenage brain development, including how their characteristic risk-taking behaviors, although maddening at times, can actually be beneficial to their journey to adulthood, in order to aid the reader’s understanding. His intended audience is most likely other parents like him, teachers and any adults that are curious
On the contrary, the risky behavior adolescents engage in can ultimately help them learn about how to navigate the world they live in and become thriving adults. This helps what is usually considered “undesireable” adolescent behavior to be viewed from a different perspective and even in a more favorable light. Moreover, it can also help parents, educators and other adults deal with teens more compassionately and appropriately when approaching discipline and consequences. The text is intended to educate people on the growth and development of a teenager’s brain, highlighting what causes them to engage in risky behavior. Dobbs asserts that teens aren’t daring risk takers because they are unintelligent or think they will live forever. Even though their brains are not fully developed, they are able to think critically and make good decisions. However, as the article states, “Teens take more risks not because they don't understand the dangers, but because they weigh risk versus reward differently” (Dobbs). Therefore, teens will be more daring than adults because they place a higher value on the rewards, especially the social ones, despite the potential negative