In the adolescent brain, amazing re-organization and sculpting is taking place! Old, unused nerve pathways are disappearing and others are being formed and strengthened. Many of these spectacular events occur in the front part of the brain, which lies behind the eyes and forehead area. This part of the brain is often called the Executive; it organizes and controls many different thinking functions. These functions include goal setting, organization, attention, working memory, judgment, and control of emotions and impulses.
Meanwhile, hormones have begun their work in the brain where they influence mood, sensation seeking, sexual impulses, and emotional regulation. The once obedient, responsible child suddenly becomes a risk-taking mass of emotional meltdowns and behavioral contradictions. However, as challenging as this developmental period may be, adults do have resources that can contribute to positive outcomes.
Because teens have variations in attention and short-term memory, information and instructions need to be short and clear. Like the rest of us, teens learn best when information is relevant to their current interests. But they are also more likely to accept new learning experiences when these are presented in active, dynamic, interactive formats. Teens frequently need direct instruction in goal setting, time management, and organizational strategies.
It is also important to understand that the emotional storms of adolescence are driven by factors that are often beyond their control. Emotions are more intense and brain structures that control them are under construction. Meanwhile, the drive to experience new things and to form closer relations with peers is on a collision course with their poor judgment and impulsivity. When a crisis inevitably occurs, parents need to provide a compassionate, patient, listening approach. Adolescents rarely want parents to ‘fix it’ for them or to offer advice. They do, however, need to understand that there are still family rules and values that must be followed. Parents can also provide opportunities for teens to experience new and challenging activities in environments that are safe for them, such as community service programs.
Finally, research indicates that teens who state that they feel close to their parents are less likely to engage in drinking, smoking, illegal drug use, and sex. Parent involvement with their teens is also positively related to school achievement. Adults can reach and help adolescents better when they use strategies that are developmentally compatible.
For further information contact Laurie Adachi, Educational Psychologist at 661-255-2688.