Second, accurate depictions of adolescence require a refinement in the phenotypic characterization of this period. For example, on a behavioral level, adolescents are often characterized as impulsive and greater risk-takers with these constructs used almost synonymously. Yet, these constructs are distinct and appreciating this distinction is important for describing their developmental trajectories and neural underpinnings. We provide behavioral, clinical and neurobiological evidence that suggest that risk-taking is more tightly coupled with sensitivity to environmental incentives (sensation-seeking) whereas impulsivity is associated with poor top down cognitive control.
