Compared to children, adolescents perform information processing tasks with what changes?

• A. Slower processing
• B. Faster processing, better memory strategies, improved metacognition
• C. No improvement
• D. Worse memory strategies

Answer: (B)

Adolescents show improvements in how quickly they process information, how effectively they use memory strategies, and how well they monitor and regulate their own thinking. As the brain matures—especially the frontal regions involved in planning, attention, and working memory—processing speed increases and cognitive control improves. With more experience and strategy use, they adopt better memory techniques like chunking, organization, and rehearsal, which lead to better encoding and retrieval. They also develop metacognition, meaning they’re more aware of their thinking, can assess their understanding, and adjust strategies accordingly. This combination explains why they typically perform processing tasks faster and with more sophisticated strategies than children. The other options conflict with these well-supported developmental gains.