What term describes adolescents' heightened drive for novelty and sensation seeking?

• A. Conscientiousness
• B. Impulsivity
• C. Sensation seeking
• D. Neuroticism

Answer: (C)

This describes sensation seeking, a personality trait that captures the appeal of novel, varied, and intense experiences and the willingness to pursue them, even if risks are involved. In adolescence, the reward-related brain systems often become more responsive, increasing the appeal of new and exciting activities and helping explain why teens gravitate toward novelty. Conscientiousness is about self-discipline and organization, not a drive for new experiences. Neuroticism relates to emotional stability and mood, not the thrill of novelty. Impulsivity involves acting quickly on urges, but the term that directly captures the craving for new and stimulating experiences is sensation seeking.