Which brain region's continued maturation supports improved executive function in adolescence?

• A. Amygdala
• B. Occipital cortex
• C. Prefrontal cortex
• D. Cerebellum

Answer: (C)

Executive function hinges on the prefrontal cortex, the brain area that coordinates planning, inhibition, working memory, and flexible thinking. During adolescence this region continues to mature, with processes like synaptic pruning and increased myelination making its circuits more efficient. As the prefrontal cortex develops, teens gain better top-down control over thoughts and actions, leading to improved planning, impulse control, and decision-making. The amygdala mainly handles emotions, the occipital cortex processes visual information, and the cerebellum supports coordination (and some cognitive tasks) but are not the primary drivers of the long, late-m developing executive-control improvements seen in adolescence.