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The brains cognitive control system, which

helps to put the brakes on risky behavior,
matures more gradually.

Teens Brains Are More

Sensitive to Rewarding
Feedback From Peers ACPS April 17 2013
Teenagers are risk-takers theyre more likely
than children or adults to experiment with illicit
substances, have unprotected sex, and drive
recklessly. But research shows that teenagers
have the knowledge and ability to make
competent decisions about risk, just like adults.
So what explains their risky behavior?

If adolescents made all of their decisions

involving drinking, driving, dalliances, and
delinquency in the cool isolation of an
experimenters testing room, those decisions
would likely be as risk averse as those of
adults, argue Steinberg and colleagues. But
therein lies the rub: Teenagers spend a
remarkable amount of time in the company of
other teenagers.

In a new report, psychological scientists

Laurence Steinberg and Jason Chein of Temple
University and Dustin Albert of Duke University
argue that some teens risky behavior reflects
the unique effect of peer influence on the stilldeveloping teenage brain.
Their report is published as part of a special
issue of Current Directions in Psychological
Science, a journal of the Association for
Psychological Science. The issue is focused on
understanding the teenage brain.
Teens spend an increasing amount of time with
their peers, and the feedback they get from
their friends and classmates may tune the
brains reward system to be more sensitive to
the reward value of risky behavior. This
sensitivity leads teens to focus on the shortterm benefits of risky choices over the longterm value of safe alternatives.

The authors point to a new wave of research at

the intersection of neuroscience and behavior
that suggests that the company of other
teenagers fundamentally changes the calculus
of adolescent risk taking.
In a study published in 2009, Steinberg and
colleagues found that early adolescents, around
14 years old, took twice as many risks in a
driving simulation game when they were
tested with peers than when they were tested
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alone. Older adolescents driving was about

50% riskier in the company of peers.
In a more recent study, Steinberg and
colleagues found that adolescents, but not
adults, took more risks when they were
observed by their peers. They also showed
greater activation of brain structures, such as
the ventral striatum and orbitofrontal cortex,
that are involved in evaluating rewards.
Taken together, findings from this line of
research reveal that being around peers can
heighten teens risky decision making by
changing the way their brains process rewards.
The phrase What were you thinking? is
known to every parent of a teenager,
observes Randall W. Engle, professor of
psychology at Georgia Tech and editor of
Current Directions. And yet, psychological
research has historically neglected teenagers,
focusing instead on children or adults.
Now, with the emergence of new techniques
for studying the brain and its development,
researchers are beginning to understand more
about the way teens think and behave.
The articles in this special issue on the teen
brain provide the latest findings from human
imaging and animal studies on topics that range
from self-control to peer influence to policy,
says B.J. Casey, guest editor of the special
issue and Director of the Sackler Institute for
Developmental Psychobiology at Weill Cornell
Medical College.
Casey emphasizes that, rather than portraying
the teen brain as somehow defective, the
contributors paint a picture of a brain that is
sculpted by both biological and experiential
factors to adapt to the unique social, physical,
sexual
and
intellectual
challenges
of
adolescence.

Discussion:
By Hadrian Wong

For many years, smoking, consumption of

alcohol and drug addiction have been a major
problem with teenagers. It is even more
serious here at FIS with a terrible reputation of
smoking students, but what really did spark
teenagers starting these acts?
From the article, it is said that teenagers are
risk-takers around peers to either impress or
to even come off as cool and their mindsets
focus on the short term benefits of risk-taking
but not on the harm it will cause on the long
term. This plays as a major factor in the
beginnings of addictive drug use along with
influence and peer pressure. Given that drug
addiction poses many problems in the long
term, such as: brain damage, lung disease,
various cancers and cardiovascular disease, it is
recommended to all.
With this factor, it is crucial to strengthen ones
thinking and behaviour when out with friends.
Teens should know to think maturely rather
than to impress others when with peers.
Therefore, during times such as gatherings and
meetups with friends, before doing or even
saying something, make sure you think twice,
be nice and most importantly be safe!

How Stress Can

Damage the Brain -

Psychology Today
February 23 2016
Cortisol, often referred to as the stress
hormone is essential for life. So why should it
also be dangerous? It was Thomas Addison, a
19th century physician from Guys Hospital,
who noticed that some of his patients were
dying of a slow, remorseless illness that was
characterized by progressive fatigue, skin
discolouration and muscle weakness. Unlike
most other physicians of the time, he carried
out several careful postmortems, and observed
that both adrenals had been destroyed by
tuberculosis, then a very common illness.
Nowadays, patients with Addisons disease
(usually an auto-immune disorder) are kept alive
and well by being given cortisol and a second
adrenal steroid (an aldosterone-like compound).
Otherwise they would die.

Levels of cortisol in the blood fluctuate. They

are highest in the morning; there is a further
surge about 30 minutes after a person wakes,
but then a steady decline throughout the day
so that, by nightfall, levels may be almost
zero. But cortisol reacts strongly to a stress,
whether this be physical (exertion, an illness )
or psychological (a threat or a demand that is
seen to be difficult to handle). Addisonian

patients need to take additional cortisol if they

become ill or stressed; otherwise they will
become very ill indeed. So the cortisol reaction
is a necessary part of coping with the
vicissitudes of life.
But problems arise if cortisol levels are raised
for prolonged periods, such as in Cushings
disease, usually the result of secretory tumours
of either the adrenal or the pituitary. Cushings
patients have marked cognitive problems, such
as memory impairments; they are also
commonly depressed, which may resolve
rapidly after cortisol levels are normalized
unlike the cognitive deficits, which may persist.
This may be why persistent stress may have
similar effects, though this is not so well
established. Artificial cortisol-like steroids are
commonly given to patients suffering from a
variety of disorders, particularly those
characterised by inflammation such as
arthritis. Nowadays, this treatment is given
intermittently, for otherwise there is a risk of
either depression or mania. A huge survey of
NHS patients in the UK showed that the
association between steroid treatment and
depression was actually quite common.
Levels of cortisol, like everything else, vary
from person to person. Depression commonly
begins in adolescence: the risks for this
happening is increased with relatively higher
levels of morning cortisol. It is also precipitated
in some people by adversity: a loss, for
example (loved one, job, money etc). Whether
this also depends on the way that their cortisol
levels
react
is
an
interesting
question. Depression is about twice as
common in women as in men: and women
have about 20% higher levels of cortisol in the
morning. Is there a connection? Women also
7

report more adverse 'life events', so cortisol

and lifestyle may interact.
Experimental studies show that cortisol can
damage the brain. The hippocampus, which is
involved in certain types of memory, is
particularly vulnerable. The hippocampus is one
of the few places in the adult brain that
continues to make new nerve cells
(neurons). Neurons of the hippocampus of rats
given corticosterone (their version of cortisol)
show distorted dendrites and markedly
suppressed
new
neuron
formation
(neurogenesis). Does this contribute to
depression? It's been suggested, but not yet
proved. Drugs used as anti-depressants
restore neurogenesis, though whether this is
how they alleviate depression is still debated.
Cortisol does something else: higher levels
empower other damaging agents, so that they
become more effective. So head injury is
made worse by giving corticoids. The
endangering effect of cortisol may have other
consequences. Those with a history of
repeated depression have about twice the risk
of developing Alzheimers disease - it may be
even greater for some subtypes of
depression. During depression, cortisol levels
may be disturbed (in about half the
cases). Levels in the morning may be elevated,
but a more common feature is that they remain
high throughout the day, so the normal daily
rhythm is lost. Cortisol levels are also raised in
Alzheimers disease itself. Do these changes
either precipitate Alzheimers or accelerate its
progression? We need to know. But it may
not be a coincidence that some of the earliest
signs of Alzheimer's occur in the hippocampus
and surrounding brain tissue. There has been a
curious lack of interest in the role of cortisol in
Alzheimers (and in depression), but its time

this was remedied. Cortisol has powerful

effects on mood, memory and decisionmaking, so its influence on brain function and
its role in the response to stress should
interest neuroscientists, psychiatrists and
clinical psychologists. Persistent, uncontrollable
stress, which is particularly liable to raise
cortisol levels, really isn't good for the brain.
Thomas Addison suffered from depression all
his life and finally committed suicide. We can
never know anything about the cortisol levels in
this punctilious, hard-working, socially diffident
man: but we can wonder. (Herbert)

Discussion
By Cloe Cheung
We have all felt stressed out, whether it is due
to school projects, exams, family or social life. .
When we are stressed, our brain releases a
hormone called cortisol to try and relieve the
effects of stress. However, it is dangerous and
unhealthy to have constant high levels of this
hormone. Memory loss and vulnerability to
head injuries are some of the possible effects.
As students, we have all been susceptible to
high levels of stress. Excessive amount of
homework, projects, tests, important exams the list goes on. If we are not careful, this
stress could potentially damage our body
permanently.
It is crucial for us to relieve stress, especially
when it gets really bad. In the article, it states
that the risk of depression is higher when there
is a significant increase of cortisol levels in the
body.

The best way to destress yourself is by doing

something else so as to take your mind off
whatever you are feeling stressed about. Going
for a walk, listening to music, doing some
sport: all of these things can help relieve the
heavy burden of stress that youre feeling. It
also helps to talk to someone you trust. It may
be a friend, a family member, and even a pet!
Ranting about your feelings will make you feel
better, since now you will not be trapped alone
in your thoughts. Finally, if you dont feel
comfortable talking about stressful issues out
loud, I recommend that you write about them
instead. In the future, you will be able to look
back and see how you felt at the time, and well
as how you managed to get past it. Not a fan
of writing? You can always doodle and draw it
out. Its alright to do anything - as long as you
are expressing yourself to rid yourself of any
anxiety.
This may sound extremely clich, but
remember: even if you dont feel relaxed and
calm right away, keep in mind that this is not
permanent and that it will get better one day.

MENTAL HEALTH
By Muriel Sirgi
Introduction
Eating disorders have become a major mental
health issue, as they are increasingly common
and have the highest mortality rate among
psychiatric disorders (Zuckerman Mind Brain
Behavior Institute). The number of people
affected by these disorders continues to grow
yearly with approximately 725 000 cases
reported in the UK in 2015 (Eating
Disorders), 89% of which being female. In the
United States, eating disorders affect
approximately 10 million women and 1 million
men
(Eating
Disorder
Statistics
and
Research). There are several types of eating
disorders, including for example anorexia
nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating
disorders (Types and symptoms of eating
disorders). This article will focus on anorexia,
one of the most commonly known eating
disorders, and more particularly on a recent
study that examined the brain mechanisms
associated with this problem.
Anorexia nervosa (AN), generally referred to as
anorexia, is currently the deadliest eating
disorder, as it often results in medical
complications, relapse and suicide. A new
study from Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior
Institute published in Nature Neuroscience
provides novel information on the neural
mechanisms associated with food choices in
people suffering from AN. The researchers
compared a group of hospitalized AN patients
with a group of healthy individuals while they
were making food choices, using magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI). Those suffering from
AN tended to select foods fewer high-fat foods
9

than the other group. While they were making

these choices, MRI allowed scientists to
observe that the group of patients with AN
made use of the dorsal striatum, a part of the
brain usually associated with habitual behavior.
Furthermore, activation of the fronto-striatal
region in patients suffering from AN also
indicated that they were calculating how many
calories they would allow themselves to
consume the next day. This has suggested that
the brain activity in people with AN is different
from that of people not suffering from this
eating disorder, instead resembling brain
activity linked to other maladaptive disorders
like substance abuse, drug addictions, and
gambling by their use of the dorsal striatum in
choice-making.

will guide them through various forms of

therapy (e.g. cognitive behavioural therapy,
interpersonal psychotherapy, and various other
forms of psychotherapy and counselling) or
dietary counselling. If necessary, medication
such as antidepressant can also be prescribed.

Discussion - Concerning FIS students

What can be done to help

Although many students may fear about

opening up to their parents and peers about
any eating disorders they may have, it is very
important that those who think they might be
suffering from an eating disorder make even
the smallest effort to reach out to someone.
This person does not have to be a parent, a
sibling or a friend: if you feel motivated enough
to get better and diminish the effect of the
mental condition you are suffering from,
therapists or counsellors are a great option.
Another option is to first complete the 3-minute
online test of the National Eating Disorders
Association,
referenced
below
(Get
screened). You could also obtain advice by
calling a helpline such as Hong Kongs HEDA:
the Hong Kong Eating Disorders Association,
where someone can answer your questions
and help you take steps to tackle the issue.

As eating disorders often have an important

impact on an individuals social and family life
as well as school work or job, it is crucial that it
is diagnosed and treated as soon as possible to
limit its negative effects (disruption of social
circles, family issues, and physical sequels of
the eating disorder (Eating Disorders). When
diagnosed with an eating disorder such as
anorexia, one can try different types of
treatment with the support of their family. This
normally includes the monitoring of the
persons physical health while dealing with the
underlying psychological causes using different
approaches: self-help manuals, guidance from a
therapist or other healthcare professional who

On a final note, I think it is also important to

stress that although it is often barely
noticeable, many students at FIS and in other
schools are suffering, to various degrees, from
a mental condition such as anorexia, bulimia or
another mental condition. If you find that one
of your friends is in that situation, it is
important that you are there for them when
they need it, and that you are constantly
respectful of their feelings. Try to encourage
them to slowly let go of any ideas that could
potentially be harmful to them, and support
them if they are trying to improve their mental
health. If they confide in you, listen. They may

These findings could potentially lead into

development of new medication to target AN,
as well as new forms of therapy for patients
suffering from maladaptive disorders such as
those cited above by targeting their decision
making habits using forms psychotherapeutic
intervention of habit reversal.

10

be going through tougher times than you

realise, and although some may have it worse,
their feelings stay valid, and you should
encourage them to seek professional help.

About MedStart:
MedStart is a 2-day medical school experience
programme organised by AMSAHK (Asian
Medical Students' Association Hong Kong) for
students from secondary school who are
interested in applying for medical school.
The programme spans the course of two days,
one day each in CUHK and HKU. We aim to
build your understanding of medical school,
your knowledge of a career in medicine, and
finally to assist you in making an informed
decision about medical school throughout your
university application process.
Some of programme highlights include:
Introduction to the Medical Curriculum
Medical lectures by professors of CUHK
and HKU Medical Faculty
Tutorial/Problem-based Learning (PBL)
Session
Tour of Medical Faculties
Doctors Experience Sharing
Dissection Lab Experience
11

 Clinical skills training

Discussion workshops on Ethics and

Social Issues
Sharing sessions led by current medical
students

Thoughts
By Cloe Cheung

the doctors experienced during their internship

definitely made me have a career change!
However, after the first day of the event, I
thought twice and decided to risk it all as my
passion for medicine overweighs my fear.
Overall, MedStart has made me more
interested into the field of medicine and for
sure, shown me the struggling journey of
becoming a doctor.

Medstart opens the door into the world of

Medicine. The two day programme allows
participants to gain a better understanding of
Medicine and what it is like to be a doctor. The
day is packed with many interesting activities,
ranging from lectures to dissection lab
experiences. Throughout the whole of
Medstart, I gained a lot of knowledge about the
struggles of becoming a medical student, and
also a doctor. Being a doctor is a daunting and
difficult profession, and many people do decide
to give up! However, I think that no matter the
difficulties, pursuing this career will be worth it
in the long run. For me, the best part of it was
meeting people from different schools with the
same interests. Medstart is a great experience
and I definitely recommend it for those who
are interested in Medicine.
By Hadrian Wong
After a weekend visiting the two universities, it
has given me a broader view of what medical
school life will be in the future. The entire
experience of MedStart did feel as if we were
university medical students, waking up early to
go to lectures and have a variety of practicals.
One of the main highlights for me is the
experience sharing from current medical
students and doctors who have just finished
their internships. The 6 year journey that they
have taken (or taking) has truly sparked a sense
of challenge in me. The pain and fatigue that
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The World Top 10 Universities for Psychology

Based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2015

Rank

Name of Institution

Location

Harvard University

United States

University of Cambridge

United Kingdom

Stanford University

United States

University of Oxford

United Kingdom

5=

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

United States

5=

Yale University

United States

7=

University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

United States

7=

University of Michigan

United States

UCL (University College London)

United Kingdom

10

Princeton University

United States

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Thank you for reading

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