THE development of the prefrontal lobe has become a popular topic on social media, particularly among TikTok content creators who use it to advise women on self-awareness at different stages of their lives. To gain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon, Caxton Local Media spoke with clinical psychologist Misokuhle Mhlongo.
Mhlongo explains that the frontal lobe is one of the five lobes of the brain, forming part of the cortex. “It’s the outermost layer of the brain, crucial for human behaviour and development. It’s what separates us from other mammals and makes us human.
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“The development of the prefrontal lobe is responsible for executive functioning, including self-control, inhibition, attention span, working memory, learning, and social understanding. This process occurs at different stages in men and women, with the prefrontal cortex developing later in males and being larger in females. Development stops around age 25 for both sexes,” she says.
While individuals possess unique personalities, understanding the core functions of our brains and their development is essential.
“The psychological makeup of an individual is complex, influenced by various factors, including cognition, mental and emotional states, personality, and external influences like trauma, social expectations and relationships. These factors impact behaviour, self-perception, coping mechanisms and decision-making,” says Mhlongo.
The development of the prefrontal lobe is a complex and fascinating process that plays a critical role in shaping our behaviour, decision-making and relationships.
By understanding how this process unfolds, we can gain valuable insights into our own strengths, weaknesses and potential.
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As Mhlongo notes, recognising the significance of the frontal lobe’s development can help us become more compassionate and empathetic towards ourselves and others.
As we continue to navigate the intricacies of the human brain, it’s clear that the frontal lobe’s development is a crucial aspect of what makes us human. By embracing this knowledge, we can work towards becoming more authentic, resilient and whole individuals.
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