Reappraising the role of dopamine in adolescent risk-taking behavior

Adolescence is characterized by increased risk-taking, which is often ascribed to developmental changes in dopaminergic signaling. Popular models propose that these behaviors are caused by dopamine-induced hyper-sensitivity to rewards, which overrides adolescents' immature self-control mechanisms. However, these models are often based on oversimplified notions about the workings and functions of dopamine. Here we discuss the relationship between changes in the dopaminergic system and adolescent behavior in light of current theories/ models about the functions of dopamine. We show that dopamine is linked to learning, adaptive decision-making under uncertainty, and increased motivation to work for rewards. Thus, changes in the dopaminergic system contribute to the maturation of cognitive control through various mechanisms, contrary to the false dichotomy between reward processing and self-control. Finally, we note that dopamine interacts with a number of other neuromodulator systems, which also change during adolescence, but that have been largely ignored in the field of adolescent development. A full understanding of adolescent behavior will require these neurochemicals and their interactions with dopamine to be taken into account.

Automated summary

Adolescence is a period of increased risk-taking behavior, which is often attributed to developmental changes in dopaminergic signaling. However, popular models oversimplify the role of dopamine, only focusing on reward processing and self-control. In this article, we discuss the relationship between changes in the dopaminergic system and adolescent behavior, highlighting the role of dopamine in learning, adaptive decision-making, and motivation. We also emphasize the importance of considering the interactions between dopamine and other neuromodulator systems in understanding adolescent behavior.