Prof Sarah-Jayne Blakemore
Cambridge University

Abstract: Adolescence is a critical period of development characterised by an increased need for peer interaction, heightened sensitivity to social exclusion and development of the social brain. Lockdown and social distancing measures intended to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 have reduced the opportunity to engage in face-to-face social interaction with peers. In this talk, I will describe research on social brain and behavioural development in adolescence and consider whether social distancing might be having a disproportionate effect during this sensitive period of development.