Have you ever wondered what’s going on inside your teenager’s head? No, it’s not a rhetorical question. There’s no doubt that teens tend to think differently than adults. But it’s not just a “phase” or some kind of rite of passage.
The teenage brain is actually different in a variety of ways.
Chances are, you thought and acted differently as a teen than you do today. But you probably didn’t know why. The more you understand the teenage brain, the easier it is to see why their thought process is so different.
So, let’s take a closer look at what makes the teenage brain different. Doing so can help you approach your teenager in ways that might better fit their needs.
The Prefrontal Cortex Isn’t Fully Developed
Perhaps the biggest difference between adult and teenage brains is the development of the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain responsible for regulating thoughts, actions, and emotions.
Do you ever feel like your teen makes decisions without thinking them through? Do they let their emotions take the lead when things get challenging? A lot of that has to do with the prefrontal cortex. They aren’t able to use rational problem-solving skills the same way you are.
It’s something you can teach them, of course, but be patient and understand that they’re still developing.
A Mind Ready to Learn
Though your teen might groan about going to school some days, the teenage brain is like a sponge. Teenagers face new situations every single day, and their brains have to be ready for that. They have an incredible ability to adapt that can weaken a bit in adulthood.
Now is the time for your teen to challenge themselves. Encourage them to try new, different things. The teenage brain isn’t just adaptable but resilient, so make sure they aren’t afraid to stand up to a challenge.
The Social Impact
Think back to when you were a teenager. Your friendships and relationships were probably the most important things in your life. Today’s teens are just the same. They are driven by social experiences and relationships.
Unfortunately, the areas of the brain responsible for social processes, along with the developing prefrontal cortex, can lead to unhealthy behaviors. Your teen might take unnecessary risks. They might only think about social benefits before considering the negative side of a situation.
However, social processes can also be positive. They might drive your teen to join a club or talk to new people. They might be more outgoing and open. Make sure you’re fostering these healthy habits. Encourage them to focus on healthy relationships and discover their own identity without too much influence from others.
Responding to Stress
Teens can actually have a harder time coping with stress than adults. Because certain parts of the brain are still forming, their stress response might not be as strong. As a result, teens are often susceptible to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Make sure your teenager understands the importance of mental wellness. Pay attention if they’re acting anxious or withdrawn. Teach them how to manage their stress effectively by practicing self-care. The more they know how to take care of their mental health now, the easier it will be for them to do so as adults.
Teenage brains are different. While they might be “full grown” physically, there are still areas of development going on. Understanding that can make it easier to give your teen some patience. But it can also help you know how and where to guide them. They’re eager to learn and grow, and you can be the best resource for that.
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