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Updated: Feb 14, 2026

Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
Importance of investing in adolescence from a developmental science perspective
Ronald E Dahl1, Nicholas B Allen2, Linda Wilbrecht3
1School of Public Health, Institute for Human Development, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.
Abstract:
This review summarizes the case for investing in adolescence as a period of rapid growth, learning, adaptation, and formational neurobiological development. Adolescence is a dynamic maturational period during which young lives can pivot rapidly-in both negative and positive directions. Scientific progress in understanding adolescent development provides actionable insights into windows of opportunity during which policies can have a positive impact on developmental trajectories relating to health, education, and social and economic success. Given current global changes and challenges that affect adolescents, there is a compelling need to leverage these advances in developmental science to inform strategic investments in adolescent health.
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