How Does Adolescent Alcohol Use Affect the Developing Brain?

Abstract

What does it mean to have a developing brain and why do drugs, including alcohol, impact adolescents differently than adults? It is a common misconception that drugs have the same effects on everyone, however the truth is, the biological playing field is not level—we all have a different susceptibility to drug-related harm. This is particularly true for young people who are under 25, because their brains are still under construction. In this article, we investigate the characteristics of the developing brain and assess the impact alcohol on the brain. We also summarize some ways that alcohol-related harm to the brain can be minimized.