From Developmental Neuroscience to Policy: A Novel Framework Based on Participatory Research

Overview

Journal Dev Cogn Neurosci

Publisher Elsevier

Specialties Neurology
Psychiatry

Date 2024 Jun 8

PMID 38850964

Authors

Yara J Toenders

Kayla H Green

Lysanne W Te Brinke

Renske van der Cruijsen

Suzanne van de Groep

Eveline A Crone

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Insights from developmental neuroscience are not always translated to actionable policy decisions. In this review, we explore the potential of bridging the gap between developmental neuroscience and policy through youth participatory research approaches. As the current generation of adolescents lives in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing society, their lived experiences are crucial for both research and policy. Moreover, their active involvement holds significant promise, given their heightened creativity and need to contribute. We therefore advocate for a transdisciplinary framework that fosters collaboration between developmental scientists, adolescents, and policy makers in addressing complex societal challenges. We highlight the added value of adolescents' lived experiences in relation to two pressing societal issues affecting adolescents' mental health: performance pressure and social inequality. By integrating firsthand lived experiences with insights from developmental neuroscience, we provide a foundation for progress in informed policy decisions.

Citing Articles

Development of Self-Concept in Childhood and Adolescence: How Neuroscience Can Inform Theory and Vice Versa.

Crone E, van Drunen L Hum Dev. 2025; 68(5-6):255-271.

PMID: 39816529 PMC: 11734892. DOI: 10.1159/000539844.

Growing Up Together in Society (GUTS): A team science effort to predict societal trajectories in adolescence and young adulthood.

Crone E, Bol T, Braams B, de Rooij M, Franke B, Franken I Dev Cogn Neurosci. 2024; 67:101403.

PMID: 38852381 PMC: 11214182. DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2024.101403.

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