The Developing BrainNew Perspectives from the World of Brain
Sciences
Tim Callahan, Psy.D.Greene County Educational Service
CenterDirector of Mental Health Services
A Scientific LeapParadigm Shift
Genetics & Epi-Genetics Brain, Neurosciences
Functional MRI, Brain MappingAttachment Theory
Research
Paradigm ShiftComplexity
By Design, Survival & AdaptationEvolutionary Mismatch
Nature and NurtureBiological Nature of RelationshipsDevelopmental Updates/New OS
Brain RegulationSocio-PoliticsPerspective
Reality??
STRESS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Modern vs Instinctual BrainsSurvival - Fight/Flight/Fright
Immune SystemDeveloped via Nature & Nurture
Threat ButtonCortisol Cascade
Executive Functioning Over-ride“Crisis”
Hyper-Excitable Nervous System
Neurotransmitters & Relationships
•Serotonin•Dopamine•Epinephrine•Norepinephrine•GABA
Superstition, Ritual & Control
“Lacking Control Increases Illusory Pattern Perception”, Science, 2008
•Perceived control over stressors wires brain through F.L.
•Lack of perceived control wires brain through primitive region
•Cause & Effect
•Impact on responsiveness to interventions
Plasticity & Resilience
The Compensating BrainNeuroplasticityAdaptability
Trauma, Stress & ResiliencyNeuronal Connectivity Health
Creating Environments to Build/Sustain Resiliency
Relationships as Anchors
Nature-Nurture SPECTRUM
Genetic <~~~~~~~> Environment
Face-to-Face Interaction
Burst & PruneTime-Released Neuronal Growth Bursts
Activation & PruningEfficiency
Mirroring with CaregiversCritical Windows
Overhaul & Installation of New OS/Updates
The Damage of Neglect
Erickson’s Stages of Development
Infancy (0-1 y.o.): Trust Toddler (2-3 y.o.): AutonomyPreschool (4-6 y.o.): InitiativeChildhood (7-12 y.o.): IndustryAdolescence (13-19 y.o.): IdentityYoung Adulthood (20-34 y.o.): IntimacyMiddle Adulthood (35-65 y.o.): GenerativitySenior (65+ y.o.): Integrity
Adolescence Defined
A developmental transition between childhood and
adulthood.
“Sturm und Drang" -- storm and stress. G.
Stanley Hall
The Storming Teen Brain
Critical WindowBurst then Prune
The Big Gap: Reward v.s. Consequences
Prepare for New Stage of Independence
HormonesMyelination
Evolutionary Mismatch
Reading Emotions
Gender Differences
Same But So So Different1% of 30,000 Genes Hormone Marinates
Different Circuits for Same TaskCompatible Complex Brains
By Design
ImplicationsInherent Features of School & “Success”
Exclusive Society & Civil RightsResiliency & Environments
RelationshipsDevelopment-Based Education, Prevention &
InterventionBrain HealthEarly & Often
Family & Community EngagementAccess to Help
Shifting Paradigm & PerspectiveLegislation & Funding
The Recipe
SafetyDignity
Respect for Individual Differences Readiness
CompassionRelationships
PraiseStimulation & Rest
Curiosity, Humor, PlayfulnessProsthetics