Parents and youth development workers need to understand the behaviors of teenagers in the context of their unique developmental stage.  There are many changes occurring biologically that impact the thoughts and feelings --and their expressions-- of young people. Below are articles and videos to help you understand what is happening in the brain!

 

 

According to Arnett (2013) the frontal lobe considers consequences, makes judgments, and filters behaviors.  This region of the brain is still under construction during adolescence.  This means many teenagers lack the biological capacity to make adult-like decisions.  Additionally, the adolescent brain has a high functioning amygdala.  This region generates quick emotional responses and seeks pleasure, novelty, excitement, and risk.  This combination helps explain why teens act impulsive and inconsistent.

 

 

Much of the brain development continues into young adulthood (18 – 25 years old).  The brain must also prune, or remove, any neural pathways that are unnecessary.  This marks the final transition into the adult brain.  Thus, adults need to help youth strengthen neural pathways that support empathetic, positive behaviors.

 

 

Adolescent Brain Development:

http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/01/28/381622350/why-teens-are-impulsive-addiction-prone-and-should-protect-their-brains

 

 

Why Talk About the Brain to Students & Parents:

http://ww2.kqed.org/mindshift/2014/12/23/why-talking-about-the-brain-can-empower-learners/

 

 

How Educators Can Harness Incredible Potential of the Adolescent Brain

http://ww2.kqed.org/mindshift/2015/12/21/harnessing-the-incredible-learning-potential-of-the-adolescent-brain/