The Teen Brain

One of the great things about having a web site that has a high search engine ranking is that you hear about a lot of new products, programs and resources. Some are not relevant to my target market but others are.

If you’re a parent of a teen you know how we often scratch our heads at their so-called logic. They present arguments why they should or shouldn’t be doing certain things and you wonder how they come up with their reasoning. Also, as hard as you try to help them appreciate the consequences of their actions, they just don’t seem to get it.

There’s a reason for this very characteristic way of thinking. Let me share an email I received recently from Paul Costiglio, Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Partnership for a Drug-Free America.

Hello Barb,

I’m writing to let you know about a new web resource/destination for parents that we launched via virtual press conference last month. It’s called “A Parent’s Guide to the Teen Brain” and it’s brand new and live at http://www.drugfree.org/teenbrain/

For every parent of a teenager who has ever wondered “who is this kid?” this new web destination for parents and caregivers, aims to make answering the question a little bit easier. Designed to help parents navigate the confusing, often frustrating teen years, “A Parent’s Guide to the Teen Brain” translates recent scientific findings that shed light on how brain development shapes teens’ behavior and personalities into easy-to-understand tips and tools for parents. Please read the press release announcing the launch of the Teen Brain Web site here www.drugfree.org/Portal/About/NewsReleases/Who_is_This_Kid

“A Parent’s Guide to the Teen Brain” was created in collaboration with the Treatment Research Institute in Philadelphia, top scientists and researchers on substance abuse and addiction and Boston-based WGBH, leaders in public broadcasting and educational multimedia. The site explains how the human brain takes 25 years to fully develop, with the prefrontal cortex - responsible for complex judgment and decision-making - maturing last. Through video, humorous interactive segments, role-playing and advice from experts, parents learn how adolescent brain development explains the “normal” teen behaviors that often confound parents -impulsiveness, rebellion, high emotions and risk-taking - and how to use this new information to connect with their teens.

Regards,

Paul A. Costiglio
Deputy Director of Public Affairs
The Partnership for a Drug-Free America