Is the impact of high reward sensitivity and poor cognitive control on adolescent risk-taking more visible in rewarding conditions?

Abstract Adolescents are expected to take more risks than adults. The presented study was designed determine whether adolescent risk-taking results from high reward sensitivity and poor cognitive control. In particular, we aimed examine the impact of these variables is visible in rewarding non-rewarding conditions. Ninety adolescents (aged 13–16) 95 young adults 20–28) took part study. We used a driving task rewarded non-rewarded conditions measure risk-taking. also tasks measuring sensitivity, control impulsivity. Additionally self-report measures self-control everyday see effects observed for self-reports mimic behavioral tasks. found that higher (but not adults) risk condition task. no or impulsivity on risk-taking, regardless age condition. At level, poorer self-control, both displayed behavior.