Problem:
The textbook describes the various ways in which the brain continues to develop during early adulthood. During early adulthood, the brain reaches its maximum size and weight. Additionally, gray matter continues to be pruned back and myelination increases. Finally, the prefrontal cortex fully develops in the late stages of early adulthood (Feldman, 2014). This means that young adults' minds are still adaptive, making learning much easier for young adults than older adults (Feldman, 2014). Early adulthood, then, becomes a crucial stage of brain development as it sets the stage for later stages of development.
There are many ways young adults can optimize their ongoing brain development. One of the more obvious methods is mental stimulation. Continuing education or simply reading, doing puzzles, drawing, or painting can provide mental stimulation and foster brain development (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022). Another way to promote brain development is taking care of the body as a whole. Physical activity has been found to help learning, problem solving, and emotional regulation (Center for Disease Control, 2025). The CDC (2025) states that even short bursts of physical activity can boost brain functions such as memory and thinking skills, while regular physical activity can reduce risk of cognitive decline later in life. Additionally, diet can affect brain health. The brain needs proteins, vitamins, and fats to function. For example, omega-3 fatty acids have been found to support the maintenance of synaptic functioning and plasticity (Gómez-Pinilla, 2008).
In terms of things to avoid in order to optimize brain function, stress is high on the list. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels in the brain. Chronic high cortisol levels have been linked to inhibition of neural connections in learning and memory, reduction of prefrontal cortex volume, and weaker executive functioning (Hicks, 2025). The textbook recommends a number of ways to reduce stress such as active problem solving, mindfulness, social support, and relaxation techniques (Feldman, 2014). Need Assignment Help?
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, August 13). Physical Activity Boosts Brain Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Feldman, R.S. (2014). Development Across the Life Span, 10th Edition. Pearson 2016, Beckett, C., Taylor, H., Human Growth and Development 3rd edition, SAGE publication, Thousand Oaks, California
Gómez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain Foods: The effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews
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