Self-control is a vital aspect of human development, influencing behavior from early childhood to adulthood. This chapter explores the multifaceted world of self-control, emphasizing its enduring impact on individuals lives. We begin by highlighting the significance of self-control, approach, and avoidance behaviors. The chapter traces the historical evolution of our understanding of how frontal brain regions contribute to emotional and behavioral regulation, drawing from lesion studies and recent research on the prefrontal cortexs role. As children transition to adolescence, their decision-making processes rapidly change. We delve into the developing adolescent brain, shedding light on reward sensitivity and its implications for decision-making, especially in risky and peer-influenced contexts. Adolescence is a pivotal period where various factors, including brain maturation, autonomy, and social environments, shape positive or negative growth trajectories. This chapter unravels the drivers of behavior, neural mechanisms of self-control, and developmental changes, offering valuable insights for public health and policy.
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