Weaker working memory can increase the risk of both early sexual activity and unprotected sexual involvement during adolescence, says a new study by an Indian American researcher.
(Times of India) – Working memory, the system in the brain that allows individuals to draw on and use information to plan and make decisions, develops through childhood and adolescence.
Adolescents with weaker working memory have more difficulty controlling their impulsive urges and considering the consequences of their behaviours. Adolescents, who have difficulty with impulse control may be more prone to risky sexual behaviour.
“We extended previous findings by showing for the first time that individuals, who have pre-existing weakness in working memory are more likely to have difficulty controlling impulsive tendencies in early to mid-adolescence,” said lead author Atika Khurana, assistant professor of counselling psychology and human services at the University of Oregon.