How an Adolescent Child's Brain Develops

Most adults are under a false assumption that adolescents are simply small versions of adults.

This assumption leads parents to expect a level of understanding and maturity that young adults simply have not grown to possess. When adolescent children act in ways that are irresponsible and impulsive, parents often get frustrated or angry.

The simple truth is, just as the body grows and matures in various stages, the brain matures and develops in phases as well.
One brain function still developing during the adolescent years is the ability to make good decisions. Adolescent boys and girls tend to take action based on emotion rather than reason.

This often leads youth to make impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.
Most times these careless acts are harmless and cause no real damage. Children express remorse when caught, but generally can offer no explanation for their poor judgment.

Parents and teachers are often upset, disappointed or frustrated by a child's lack of judgment. In reality, impulsive behaviors are a common part of adolescence.

With that noted, there is one warning parents should heed. Experts in child development agree that more risky impulsive behaviors are likely to occur when adolescents are among peers, and away from parent supervision.

Without parental guidance children are as much as twice as likely to engage in unsafe behaviors.
While children desire and need a level of independence, parents should be aware of their children's whereabouts and activities at all times.

Examples of Common Impulsive Behaviors Going home from school with a friend without permission Walking home from school without asking Making plans without consulting parents Getting into an argument or fight Cutting classes or skipping school Getting angry over something minor Lashing out at an authority figure Becoming emotional over something trivial Copying a friend's homework or class assignment In truth, children may act impulsively in a number of ways.

If your child acts without thinking or makes poor choices, take a deep breath and remember these are normal characteristics of the adolescent years. As a means of keeping your child safe and mindful, continue to offer and enforce consequences for poor behaviors. Remind your child to take time to think things through before acting.
Reinforce what is expected from your child by reviewing your family rules and values often. Let children know that rules are set for their safety and well-being. Be firm with your discipline, yet patient with your understanding.
Over time, your child's brain will mature and this will lead to more mature, responsible choices.