The Pressure of Being a Teenager

Teenagers know what pressure is! Just try it, it will be fun.  Are you really going to wear that? Hey, did you hear that Joe's parents are out of town Saturday. OMG! We have to do that again! Do it, or I'll tell everyone what a poser you are!  You can't say things like that if you are … Continue reading The Pressure of Being a Teenager

What Where You Thinking?!?! Understanding the Prefrontal Cortex of the Teenage Brain

Have you ever asked your teen, "What were you thinking" and gotten the answer, "I wasn't"  or "I don't know." During adolescence, the teenage brain is undergoing subtle, but dynamic changes, all in the midst of major physiological, psychological, and social transitions. Overall, theses changes lead to more sophisticated thinking skills and increases in their … Continue reading What Where You Thinking?!?! Understanding the Prefrontal Cortex of the Teenage Brain

Motivating Teens: Why Can’t We Just Give Them Gold Stars?

Have you ever wished you could motivate your teen by offering him a sucker or providing her with an opportunity to earn a desired toy after putting enough gold stars on the calendar? This may have worked when your child was younger, but life with a teenager is much more complicated!  In order to understand … Continue reading Motivating Teens: Why Can’t We Just Give Them Gold Stars?