When transitioning from an adolescent to an adult, one will undergo drastic changes that allow room for the challenges and responsibilities ahead. For example, one of the largest cognitive changes that takes place in this period is the enlarging of the prefrontal cortex. This brain structure functions in decision-making, which is an essential criterion of entering adulthood. Another cognitive difference seen between adolescents and young adults is the brain's activation of the limbic system, an area that functions more towards the emotional and social sides of cognition. The overuse of this brain area during adolescence is linked with insecurities and often socioemotional distress; however, as one matures into adulthood they tend to outgrow these thought processes and develop a better sense of higher-ordered thinking. A tough part of this transition, however, can be forming a sense of one's own identity. …show more content…
If one is not able to fully address these aspects, this leaves room for self-doubt and a lack of self-concept. Furthermore, this open window can also be extremely freeing and lend a whole new world of independent, abstract thinking. Finally, physical changes also play a huge part in this transition. From a biological standpoint, young adults finally are freed of some of the excess hormones that surged during the onset of puberty. However, as these adolescents slowly hit their point of maximum growth, they will begin to notice a slow in metabolism and even sometimes a decrease in energy. While many of these aspects appear quite negative, the transition from adolescence to adulthood is overall one of the largest steps in personal and cognitive development in one's