Teen brains and social skills

This month's post is on two topics that always come up between teenagers and parents. The piece on social skills is written by a teen for teens, but adults need to read it, too. The other two links are to information on the teenage brain, definitely targeted at parents. But if I still had teenagers, I'd share these links with them as well. Let's get some conversations going.

For students

A 16-year-old writes about her lack of social skills. It’s an excellent piece for teens and adults. Teachers could use this post to generate some interesting discussions in school.

For parents

Parents of teenagers are always wondering why their kids do some of the not-brilliant things teens do. My husband and I certainly experienced those thoughts when our kids were teenagers. I’ve come across two resources to give adults more insights into how and why teens think and act the way they do.

NPR interviewed Dr. Frances Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain. She opens by talking about why teenagers may look like adults, but seriously lack the ability to think like adults. The interview with Dr. Jensen starts at the 31:30 min. mark.

NPR also has a written interview with Dr. Laurence Steinberg, author of The Age of Opportunity. He gives his own take on what’s happening in the teenage brain, how to help teens make smarter decisions, and what schools can do to help.