Teen Brain: Behavior, Problem Solving, and Decision Making

Many parents do not understand why their teenagers sometimes act in an impulsive, irrational or dangerous manner. Teenagers may not seem to think about things or consider the results of actions adequately. Puberty young people differ from adults in how they act, solve problems, and make decisions. There is a biological explanation about this difference. Studies have shown that the brain continues to mature and develop throughout childhood and adolescence and early adulthood.

Scientists have identified a specific area of ​​the brain called the amygdala. It is responsible for immediate reactions, including fear and offensive behavior. This field has developed very early. However, the frontal cortex, areas of the brain that control reasoning helps thought and development before taking action. This part of the brain is still changing and mature for adults

Other changes in the adolescent brain include a rapid increase in the binding between brain cells, making the brain pathway more effective. Neurons produce myelin. Myelin helps cells communicate. All these changes are essential for coordinating the development of ideas, behavior and behavior.

The image of the brain in action indicates that the teen brain works differently from adults in making decisions and solving problems. Their behavior is influenced by the emotional and reactive amygdala rather than the thoughtful logical frontal cortex. Studies also indicate that these symptoms may change or be delayed when exposed to drugs or alcohol during puberty.

The difference between these brains does not mean that young people can not make a right decision or distinguish between good and evil. This does not mean they are not responsible for their actions. But recognizing these differences helps parents, teachers, supporters, and decision-makers understand, predict and manage puberty behavior.

Studies have shown that even though 18 years old is considered a legitimate adult, in the mid 2020's the human brain and body can only fully mature. Areas related to decision making, behavior, and problem solving are the most varied fields between adolescents and adults in adolescence. Changes in hormones also play an important role in the brain and body of adolescent young people. And they adapt, calm down, and longing for being accepted by their colleagues. If the peer group is participating in a high-risk behavior, we recommend that a teenager participate in order not to be rejected by that group.

The special part of the brain is called the prefrontal cortex (also known as CEO of the brain) and is responsible for problem solving, impulse control, and weighing options. Unfortunately, for young people, this brain area is not fully developed yet. Actually, it did not begin to mature until the mid-1920s. Therefore, we hope that young people can better understand, but in reality there are several physiological reasons to think that teens are invincible. Also, when you send a text message, there is a possibility that teens who are invited to others by a photo may be bullied. This creates a cruel world for the teenager's lives. Because of embarrassment and disappointment, they are afraid of getting things worse or caught in trouble. For many teenagers, they may feel trapped and they can not escape.