“What were you thinking?”
Has your teen ever done anything to make you ask that question? Chances are – yes, and you probably asked other questions like “Who are you and what have you done with my nice, normal kid?”
Recent scientific research shows us that the brain is not fully developed until around age 25. The last part of the brain to develop is the area responsible for discernment, risk evaluation, and decision making. In simpler terms: common sense and good judgment.
The emotional center of the brain is very active in teens and when you add high-emotions and low common sense – well, you just want to grab your kid and say: “what were you thinking?!!” Actually, they might not have been thinking much at all.
If you would like to find out more about the Teen Brain and how you can better understand your teen, join us at the Parent Workshop this Saturday. Workshops are free. Space is limited and reservations are necessary. Contact Kim.Obert@DrugFreeAz.orgor 602-264-5700 for more information or to sign up.
