Gains in language development during adolescence are largely due to
A) biological maturation.
B) reading adult literary works.
C) improved capacity for reflective thought and abstraction.
D) adult instruction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During adolescence, individuals undergo significant cognitive development, particularly in their capacity for reflective thought and abstraction. This enhanced cognitive capacity likely contributes to gains in language development, as adolescents can comprehend and manipulate language more complexly. Biological maturation and adult instruction may also play a role, but neither factor is as central as cognitive development. Reading adult literary works may broaden adolescents’ vocabulary and expose them to more complex syntax, but again, this is secondary to the underlying cognitive changes.

Gains in Language Development During Adolescence Are Largely Due to