The Functional State of Emotion-Motivational Brain Regulatory Systems and Risk-Taking Propensity in Adolescents

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify relationships between the functional state of the different brain regulatory systems (BRS), voluntary control and emotional-motivational regulation in adolescents (n = 95, age ~13.96 ± 1.13, girls 34%). We also analyzed the relationship between individual characteristics of emotional-motivational regulation and risk-taking tendencies in separated groups with specific EEG signs of suboptimal functional state of the BRS. Five tests were performed: 1) assessment of individual traits of achievement motivation vs. failure avoidance using the Mehrabian Questionnaire (TMD), 2) emotional intelligence (EI) using the MSCEIT 2.0, 3) assessment of propensity to risky decision-making by monetary computer game Baloon Analog Risk Task. On the basis of a qualitative analysis of the EEG, 4) the participants were classified into groups showing evidence of suboptimal functioning of the frontothalamic (FTS), limbic (LMB), frontobasal (FBZ) and to control group in the case of absence of specific signes. All groups, except control, showed a decrease in the EI scale, which associate sensations with emotions. A specific decrease in EI indicators was found in experimental groups in comparison with the control group: FTS – on the scale of understanding blended emotions; LMB — on the scale of facilitation of cognitive activity by emotions; FBZ group — on a scale reflecting the ability to manage one’s own emotions. The indicators of the Mehrabian questionnaire showed propensity towards achievement motivation in the LMB. Correlations between EI, achievement motivation and risk-taking: in FTS, LMB a positive correlation of the risk-taking with the scale associate sensations with emotions. For LMB there is also a positive correlation between risk-taking, understanding and management of emotions. The results are discussed in terms of the influence of the suboptimal state of brain regulatory systems on the emotional and motivational regulation in adolescents.