Think you're smarter than a fifth grader? At the very least, you learn differently. Scientists in the Netherlands have published a study that proves the brain is yet another part of the body that experiences significant changes during the tween years.
Published in the Journal of Neuroscience this month, the study by developmental psychologist Dr Eveline Crone and colleagues from the Leiden Brain and Cognition Lab shows a positive attitude helps younger kids cotton onto concepts. But around 12, the brain starts to develop the ability to learn from mistakes. So being presented with the words, "no, you're wrong," is actually better for teens than a slap on the back. No wonder - it's what they'll be telling their parents for the next eight years.
The study was one of the first to split its subjects into three different age groups rather than the traditional split of "children" and "adults." Kids eight and nine were lumped together, as were kids 11 and 12. The adults represented were aged 18 to 25. The result puts into question the age-old practice of punishing our younger kids for their misdeeds to make them straighten up and fly right and the habit of trying to win our teens' affection back.
Apparently, we've got it backward - so let's start spanking the teenagers! Only kidding (sort of). But while I'm still going to follow through with time outs for my pre-schooler, I have to remember to put even more of an emphasis on congratulating her for each and every job well done. As for those of you with teens, here's permission from brain docs (just as smart as brain surgeons, we'd imagine) to scare 'em straight.
Image: University of Leiden
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