It almost seems like a contradiction, doesn’t it? Healthy teenager?

I have been fairly quiet on this topic because my kids are still little and I haven’t raised teens yet. The only experience I have is my own teen years, and those were filled with rebellion, acting out, pushing the envelope, and generally getting in trouble. (I know…. ME? Can you believe it? )  😉

But it occurred to me this morning that my perspective on those years, along with the neurology I’ve learned as an adult does give me some perspective… so here it is.

• Your teen really does need sleep and is not just lazy. Teens need nearly as much sleep as toddlers do. The hormonal changes they’re going through take a huge amount of energy and resources to push them into adulthood.
• Your teen’s brain isn’t yet wired to understand consequences fully. The neurons in the brain are coated with a substance called myelin, and myelin is not completely created yet until the early 20’s, so the messages from the “I want to do this” part of the brain don’t travel as well to the “But it may not be a good idea” part of the brain until they are older.
• Hormonally, your teen IS an adult. And this is a catch 22 because on a physical level, they’re supposed to be exploring their sexuality from as early as 13 (or the start of menses or erections). Socially, though, that’s dangerous and does not teach them much needed lessons about emotions, discipline, and taking care of their sexual health.

I remember in my mid 20’s I was having a talk with my dad about my teen years, and he let me know that he knew I used to sneak out of the house when I was 16. I said, “You did? Why didn’t you ever say anything or try to stop me?” and his response was eye opening. He replied, “I would have been worried if you weren’t trying to sneak out. At least I knew you were normal.”

I’m looking forward to the journey with my own daughters, but right now I’m really happy I have 7 or so years to worry about pre-teen and teen angst!

Listen to It’s a Pair-A-Docs! tomorrow morning at 11 am while we discuss this very topic. Call in! You can listen online at www.Newstalk1380.com.

~Dr. M