A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What neural activation difference was observed between adolescents and adults during gambling tasks?

1. Lower activation of the ventral striatum in adolescents.

2. No difference in brain activation during gambling tasks.

3. Increased activation of the ventral striatum in adolescents with higher expected value.

4. Greater overall brain activation in adults during the tasks.

The correct answer is: Increased activation of the ventral striatum in adolescents with higher expected value.

The correct choice highlights the observation that adolescents exhibit increased activation of the ventral striatum when presented with higher expected value during gambling tasks. This area of the brain is closely associated with reward processing and is critical for decision-making under risk. Research indicates that adolescents may demonstrate heightened sensitivity to rewards compared to adults, leading to greater activation in the ventral striatum, especially in response to stimuli that predict potential gains. This phenomenon can be attributed to the ongoing developmental changes in the brain, where the reward system can be more reactive during adolescence. This increased activation may reflect a different neurological approach to risk and reward evaluation in adolescents, as their brain systems are still maturing. In contrast, adults, who may have more developed regulatory capabilities and a more cautious approach to risk-taking, may show less activation in response to the same rewards. Understanding this difference is crucial in grasping the developmental aspects of decision-making and risk behavior, which can inform both psychological research and practical applications in education and behavioral interventions.