Understanding Your Teen's Brain

Ask any parent of a teen and they will tell you that their teen's brain is not operating at full capacity. As it turns out, those parents are right. Researchers are finding evidence to support the fact that teens' brains are underdeveloped. Here we will explore some research findings and their implications for parents.

Research Finding:

A longitudinal study conducted by NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) using MRI found that the prefrontal cortex (where the brain's executive functions such as planning, reasoning, mood regulation and problem solving occur) is not fully developed until into young adulthood. Instead, teens rely heavily on the amygdala, the part of the limbic system that is associated with instinctive gut reactions. In other words, teens are bright and can come up with creative and inventive ideas, but do not have access to the part of the brain that tells them if they are good ideas or not.

Implications for Parents:

While teens may want to act like adults, they are unable to do so with any consistency or regularity. Parents of teens would be wise to spend time considering their teen years as a means of increasing empathy and compassion for the plight of their teens. With information about the teen brain and a dose of empathy, parents can develop a broader perspective that can help them connect with their kids rather than react.

Research Finding:

There is a "pruning" phase that occurs during adolescence whereby certain brain functions become "set." From Dr. Jay Giedd of NIMH: ". . . our leading hypothesis for that is the 'use it or lose it' principle. Those cells and connections that are used will survive and flourish. Those cells and connections that are not used will wither and die. So if a teen is doing music or sports or academics, those are the cells and connections that will be hard-wired. If they're lying on the couch or playing video games or MTV, those are the cells and connections that are going [to] survive (1999)." Habits and behaviors at this age could have long term effects.

Implications for Parents:

Talk frankly with your teens about the development of their brain s and explain the possible long term impact of their current choices. Research the studies on the teen brain together. Encourage the exploration of enriching experiences (such as trying new sports, arts, music, etc). You may stumble upon a hidden talent or interest. Discuss their use of time and the "training" that idle activities and behaviors have on the hard wiring of their brains .

Parents of teens can take heart. The old adage "this, too, shall pass" holds true for teens. Approaching this developmental stage of your child's life with knowledge and resources will help you and your teen navigate the often tumultuous time together.