Abstract
<p>Delay discounting (DD) tasks assess choice impulsivity by measuring preferences for smaller immediate versus larger delayed rewards. It remains unclear whether hypothetical delay–reward (Hdr; imagined delays and rewards) and real delay–reward (Rdr; experienced delays and real rewards) tasks tap the same constructs, especially during adolescence, a period of significant cognitive and motivational development. We examined DD in 69 typically developing Brazilian adolescents (42 males, 27 females) aged 9 to 18 years (M = 13.7, SD = 2.8). Participants completed computerized Hdr and Rdr tasks with matched delays and rewards, and discounting was quantified using the area under the curve (AUC), with lower values indicating greater preference for smaller, immediate rewards. Mixed-effects regression models tested developmental patterns and task differences. Hdr AUC remained stable across age and was consistently higher than Rdr AUC. In contrast, Rdr AUC followed a curvilinear trajectory, peaking at age 15.7 years. This pattern may reflect adolescents' increased preference for larger, delayed rewards when outcomes are tangible. Although the tasks used identical parameters, Hdr and Rdr may engage partially distinct cognitive processes. These findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between hypothetical and real reward conditions when studying impulsivity and self-regulation during adolescence.</p>