Recent brain studies show that judgment, impulse control and decision-making abilities don’t fully mature until the early 20’s.  Given the recent explosion of prescription and over-the-counter medications and a culture in which teen alcohol consumption is rampant, this research suggests today’s youth are particularly vulnerable to the “a pill or drink will make it better” culture.  Understanding some of the intricacies and landmarks of adolescent brain development in the context of today’s complex world can aid parents in helping their teens avoid risky decision-making that can lead to dangerous patterns of behavior. To read B-PEN's special edition of the PARENT NETWORK NEWSLETTER on THE TEEN BRAIN, click here.