New Scientist - The five ages of the brain

This is a great introduction to the five stages of brain development from New Scientist. Each of the five stages has an article explaining the major developmental issues for that stage - and obviously, this is just the neuroscience perspective, but it's very useful information if you want to understand human consciousness.

The five ages of the brain

OUR CHANGING BRAINS

Throughout life our brains undergo more changes than any other part of the body. These can be broadly divided into five stages, each profoundly affecting our abilities and behaviour.

But we are not just passengers in this process, so how can we get the best out of our brains at every stage and pass the best possible organ on to the next? New Scientist investigates

1. Gestation

A good prenatal environment is needed to make the best out of the growing brain

2. Childhood

Life experiences in these early years help shape our emotional well-being, but neglect or harsh parenting may change the brain for good

3. Adolescence

Teenagers are selfish, reckless, irrational and irritable, but given the cacophony of construction going on inside the adolescent brain, is it any wonder?

4. Adulthood

The peak of your brain's powers comes at around age 22 and lasts for just half a decade – but there is an upside to the ageing brain

5. Old age

Not everyone ages in the same way, but what's the difference between a jolly, intelligent oldie and a forgetful, grumpy granny? And can we improve our chances of becoming the former?

Tags: Psychology, brain, aging, New Scientist, five ages of the brain, old age, adulthood, adolescence, childhood, gestation