Understanding The Teenage Brain

It's easy to see the physical transition into "teenhood" via growth spurts and deepening voices. But, what's going on internally as youth age, especially with their developing teenage brains?

Chantal Walker, MD, a pediatrician with the Franciscan Physician Network Coolspring Health Center in Michigan City, Indiana, shares important information surrounding the developing teenage brain - which parents can use to help support their teens in managing their behaviors and emotions.

Teenage Brain Development

In terms of actual physical size, brain growth stops at approximately 11 years old in girls and 14 years old in boys. However, developmentally, the brain continues to mature well into the mid-20s or later. This growth involves two critical areas of development, on two different parts of the brain: the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala.

The prefrontal cortex is the front area of the brain, essentially right behind the eyes. Scientists believe the prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in regulating mood, attention, impulse control and the ability to think more abstractly (e.g. planning ahead, understanding potential consequences of any given behavior).

The second area that is key for the developing teenage brain is the amygdala, a small walnut-shaped structure that sits deeper within the brain. This part of the brain is associated with emotions and motivation.

Teen Tantrums

If you're a parent of a teen, you may have witnessed something similar to a "tantrum" when they don't get their way. Teenagers are also more likely to take risks, due to the underdevelopment of the prefrontal cortex.

Teenage years are challenging for parents and teens. During these developments and new experiences with their environment, teenagers may prioritize their emotions over their thinking skills, leading to emotional outbursts and aggression.

"Adolescence or teenage years is a time where a lot of growth and development happens," Dr. Walker said. "Their bodies have a lot of hormonal changes that are happening at the time, both physically and mentally. With hormonal changes, you can expect mood swings that make you wonder what happened to that sweet little kid you used to know. Still, the most important thing that we need to remember is that their brains are continuing to develop."

Strategies For Parents Of Teens

One of the best strategies parents or guardians of teens can employ is to provide a nurturing home environment, with plenty of love and support. Many of the reactions teens have are out of their control; it's simply a consequence of their brains going through the developmental process. If parents understand what is happening at each stage of brain development, they are better equipped to handle their teen's outbursts when they happen.

Help Your Teen Slow Down

Start by helping your teen slow down a bit.

"We want to be preventive and promote healthy lifestyles for our teens," Dr. Walker said. "The next thing is to identify any stressors they may have currently, including academic performance, friends, potential bullying, a good support network and much more."

Focusing on future goals can also help teens mitigate undesirable behaviors and emotions.

Additionally, it's essential to assist your teens in taking time away from their devices.

"It's absolutely irrefutable that time spent on digital technology directly correlates to the likelihood of developing depression or anxiety," Dr. Walker said. "I encourage parents to try to limit screen time for their teens. Still, it's not as simple as telling your child to put their phone down. We need to find other ways to occupy their time, such as with extracurricular activities, outdoor activities, working out at a gym or spending time with their family playing board games."

Recognize The Signs Of Depression Or Shifting Behavior In Teens

Finally, parents should be on alert for any warning signs that might indicate red flags in teenage behavior. Sometimes, they need a parent or an adult to listen to them and provide extra support.

The CDC shared some emotional and social changes that young teens may experience that can be recognized as red flags. These changes include:

• Loss of interest in family interaction and hobbies
• Higher peer influence
• Lack of confidence surrounding high expectations
• Stress from challenging academics
• Change in eating habits
• Obsession with their physical appearance
• Irritability or mood swings
• Sadness or depression, which can lead to decreased academic performance, substance use, unsafe sex and more.

"When you're able to identify the stressors surrounding your growing teens that could be leaving them non-functional, it's crucial to seek other forms of management, even through outside help," Dr. Walker said.

Dr. Walker explained that it's so essential for kids to have their annual exams with their primary care physician. These conversations often come up during the exam and it may shock parents who may not have recognized the signs of depression.

"If a teen tells me they aren't interested in anything or have any friends, that will make me ask more questions," Dr. Walker said.

Form A Supportive Home Environment For Your Teen

An environment with open communication is crucial for teens to express themselves and for parents to better understand their children's emotions.

"Kids and teens should feel free to come and talk to their parents about whatever is going on," Dr. Walker said. "If they know they can voice their concerns, that's the first step. The goal is to have your child understand that they have a place where they can share their feelings."

Dr. Walker explained that dismissing things that may seem irrelevant to you does not help solve your teen's stressors. If you don't have the answers to assist your teen, seeking professional help is essential.

"Still, while they want to be heard and validated, we have to remember that the goal is to produce an independent and functioning adult," Dr. Walker said. "Prioritize listening to their concerns while they problem solve on their own. Just ensure you're willing to assist or seek additional help and remind your teen that you're there for them."

Find The Right Outside Support For Your Teen

When it's time to get help from a professional, your teen may not be immediately willing to participate. Still, it's crucial to discuss with your child how they can benefit from outside support.

"Sometimes, kids will express that they don't want to talk to anyone and that they're perfectly fine," Dr. Walker said. "Parents may need to insist on following through with the appointment. Once the kids have that initial conversation or the initial therapy session, they're likely to change their minds about not benefitting from the experience."

Dr. Walker explained that it's possible that you may not get the right person to assist your teen on the first try, but it's still worthwhile.

"You have to find the person your child feels most comfortable with or the person you think understands your child and their personality," Dr. Walker said.

When looking for additional resources on mental health for teens and children, start with your pediatrician, as they can give you a referral.