The brain continues to mature until 25 years old. The critical issue during the teens is the maturing of the judgement processing system. When the brain's development/maturing is interrupted by injury, this maturing can be limited. This judgement maturing only happens during this period. It will not start up and continue to full maturity with just a delay.

Soldiers are best in battle at 18 to 22 because their judgement system has not matured yet.

A person with brain trauma or illness during these years can be left with a maturity level equal to the age when their injury/illness happened/started. If they recover soon enough, some of the maturing can still take place as the maturing process slows down.

I know a man who was drug addicted during these years and has the maturity level of a 12 to 14 year old. I know a woman who spent most of these years fighting schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder and has a similar maturity issue. Brain trauma that takes years to heal can cause the same.

If a personality can be changed by trauma, it easily fits that judgement maturity can, also.

A common struggle after brain trauma is recognizing facial expressions and other social cues. It is due to a break in the hard wiring.

Understanding these issues can help us move forward by utilizing assistance and guidance as we make decisions.