NHK Documentary

Science to the Rescue! The Science of Adolescence

Adolescence – a time when children suddenly become rebellious teenagers. The latest research suggests the changes are closely related to a mechanism acquired during human evolution. Adolescents' troubling behavior is actually rooted in brain development. However, in this era of rapidly-shifting social environments, the unique workings of the adolescent brain present new challenges for young people that may be linked to depression and bullying. Drawing on scientific experiments and evolutionary anthropology, this program uncovers the secrets of the sensitive adolescent mind.