Do Teens Act Without Thinking?
Parents often see their teens act rashly without thinking, not understanding their bad decision-making is biological. During adolescence, the teenage brain is only 80 percent developed and therefore incredibly susceptible to peer-pressure, risky behavior and less likely to make mature decisions.
TeenSafe demonstrates the biological reasoning behind teen actions and why communication is key in achieving a healthy relationship between parent and child.
During teenage adolescence, the prefrontal cortex is poorly balanced with the remaining emotional part of the brain, leading to irrational behavior and vulnerability to peer-pressure.
The underdeveloped frontal region of the brain also contributes to the inability to rationalize emotional responses and read adult facial expressions. This can lead to miscommunication and misrepresentation.
Do Teens Act Without Thinking?
Parents must recognize that maturity is highly influenced by biological factors. Regardless of how mature their child may seem, teenagers do not have the understanding of risks and repercussions as adults do.
To ensure their teen is acting responsible, and miscommunication is less likely to occur, parents should keep these tips in mind, says TeenSafe:
- Keep the lines of communication open
- Offer support and advice without judgment
- Stay involved in their lives and know who they’re talking to
- Set healthy boundaries and clear expectations
Open and honest communication is necessary between parent and child, particularly in the years of teenage adolescence.
