How To Get Your Teen To Understand The Importance Of Choices

Even the most well-adjusted teenagers struggle with making good choices at times. This is partially due to the fact that they are still developing mentally, physically and emotionally. It is well documented in scientific research that the frontal lobes of teenage brains are not fully connected, which can result in inefficient communication from one part of brain to the other.

In addition to a developing brain, teenagers often struggle with making good decisions because they are highly responsive to their environment. This sensitivity is great when your child is learning a new skill, but detrimental when he or she is using drugs or alcohol. For example, research has shown that when a teenager smokes pot, the cognitive effects last much longer than an adult — who returns to their cognitive baseline much quicker.

Teens also tend to believe they are invincible and that right now is all that matters. It is difficult for them to see the potential consequences of their actions down the road. That fearlessness, when not harnessed can turn into foolishness. Learn more about inciting reasonable fear in your teen here.