What does the process of synaptic pruning improve in adolescents?

The process of synaptic pruning is a fundamental part of brain development during adolescence. This process involves the elimination of less active synapses, allowing for more efficient neural connections to form. As a result, it significantly enhances cognitive functions, particularly memory and attention.

In adolescents, the brain is undergoing considerable changes, and synaptic pruning helps refine the neural circuitry involved in processing and recalling information, leading to improved memory capabilities. It also optimizes attention by strengthening the pathways that are frequently used while eliminating those that are redundant or less effective. This increased efficiency in neural communication allows adolescents to better focus on tasks, retain information, and manage cognitive resources more effectively.

While physical strength and endurance, language acquisition, and social skills can also transform during adolescence, synaptic pruning specifically targets the improvement of cognitive functions, which predominantly include memory and attention. Thus, the correct answer highlights the crucial role synaptic pruning plays in enhancing these cognitive abilities during this critical developmental stage.