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Parenting > Understanding Teenagers

It's been said that "raising teenagers is like trying to nail jello to a tree." Parents sometimes wonder how they survive the teenage years, and it can be a stressful time for the teens as well. It's important for parents to know that efforts to "build bridges" with their teens during this sometimes turbulent time, will go far to strengthen the relationship and bond.

Recent scientific research into brain development in teenagers has revealed remarkable information that parents will find valuable in helping to understand many of the sometimes challenging behaviors of teens. The teenage brain operates mostly in the brain's limbic system, which is the emotional part of the brain, which controls mood and impulse. A teen's pre-frontal cortex (the thinking part of the brain) is under construction for most of the teenage years, which can explain some of the confusing decision making that parents see from teens. In his book, Yes Your Teen is Crazy, author Michael J. Bradley discusses the massive structural changes in the teenage brain and how those changes affect behavior.

But understanding what's happening in the teenage brain does not excuse many of the behaviors that most challenge parents. From school obligations, driving, dating, awareness of alcohol and drugs, and so many more of the issues facing teens, parents need to have the proper tools to handle these impressionable years. One-on-one guidance is available. If you want more information on how to better understand your teenager and effective ways of handling him or her, please contact us.