ABSTRACT
Contrary to earlier ideas about brain development, research shows that there are many brain developmental processes still going on during the adult years. In addition to studies comparing brain development in young adults and middle age adults, there also are some differences found in young adult brains as compared to adolescent brains. The diagnosis of schizophrenia often is made during the late adolescent or early adult time periods. However, J. Welham and colleagues have reported that many young adults who are eventually diagnosed with schizophrenia have shown symptoms of psychopathology during childhood and adolescence. There are various clinical subtypes that involve different symptoms. Each involves different challenges, therapies, and management issues for those adults who have this condition. Since brain development, both positive and negative, continues throughout life, the importance of continued attention to maintaining and enhancing healthy brains is recognized. Families, educators, and community advocates can all support adult brain health.
