Five Psychological Facts About Teenagers

6. 25. 2024

1. Brain Development and Risk-Taking

Teenagers' brains are still developing, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and reasoning. This underdevelopment, coupled with a highly active limbic system (which drives emotions and reward-seeking), can lead to increased risk-taking behavior (Casey, B.J., Jones, R.M., & Hare, T.A., 2008, "The Adolescent Brain").

2. Identity Formation

Adolescence is a critical period for identity formation. Psychologist Erik Erikson described this stage as "Identity vs. Role Confusion," where teens explore different roles, beliefs, and identities. Successful navigation through this stage leads to a strong sense of self, while failure can result in confusion and instability in adulthood (Erikson, E.H., 1968, "Identity: Youth and Crisis").

3. Peer Influence

Peers play a significant role in the lives of teenagers. Adolescents are more likely to conform to peer norms and are highly influenced by their friends' behaviors and attitudes. This peer influence can have both positive and negative effects on behavior and decision-making (Steinberg, L., 2008, "A social neuroscience perspective on adolescent risk-taking").

4. Sleep Needs

Teenagers need more sleep than adults due to the physical and psychological changes they undergo. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 8-10 hours of sleep per night for teens. However, many adolescents experience sleep deprivation due to academic pressures, social activities, and early school start times, which can negatively impact their cognitive function and mood (National Sleep Foundation, 2015).

5. Emotional Sensitivity

Teens are more emotionally sensitive and reactive than adults. The heightened activity in the amygdala, the brain's emotional center, contributes to intense emotional responses. This sensitivity can make teens more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and mood swings (Giedd, J.N., 2004, "Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Adolescent Brain").

Sources:

• Casey, B.J., Jones, R.M., & Hare, T.A. (2008). "The Adolescent Brain." Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences.

• Erikson, E.H. (1968). "Identity: Youth and Crisis."

• Steinberg, L. (2008). "A social neuroscience perspective on adolescent risk-taking." Developmental Review.

• National Sleep Foundation. (2015). "Teens and Sleep."

• Giedd, J.N. (2004). "Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Adolescent Brain." Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences.