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What Is Normal Behavior For Teens?

What Is Normal Behavior For Teens?

When attempting to delineate between typical and atypical teenage behavior it is helpful to understand how the brain of an adolescent functions. With an underdeveloped pre-frontal cortex (area of the brain that reigns rational thought, impulse control, executive planning, etc.) teenagers are forced to rely on the amygdala (area of the brain that governs one’s emotions, impulsivity, emotional behavior, and motivation) to process external stimuli. Hence, teenagers are inherently programmed to make decisions and react from an emotional standpoint, not a rational standpoint. Most teens are operating with outdated and inadequate emotional coping mechanisms, and though some teen behaviors may seem wildly outlandish, they may simply be originating from a place of deep confusion. When considering what constitutes normal teenage behaviors, it is helpful to be mindful of the fact that teenagers are on a constant search of self-discovery. 

Teenage Behaviors

Every young person is unique, and each will navigate the shifting hormones, physical development, challenging lessons, and newfound need for autonomy distinctly. Further, each teen will have a nuanced way of processing, integrating, and/ or internalizing the experiences that arise during adolescence. Examples of normal behavior for teens could include any combination of the following, provided by Healthline:

  • Staying up late
  • Getting moody, frustrated, and irritable at times
  • Not wanting to do schoolwork
  • Pushing back on house rules, and testing limits
  • Alcohol use and experimentation
  • Lying or withholding information to maintain some level of privacy from parents

Even so, due to the highly volatile and emotional nature of teenagers, it can be difficult to distinguish between typical teenage behavior and an indication that something may be awry. As a parent it is important to understand your own limitations and recognize that your teen may be dealing with certain issues that extend beyond your abilities. There is a plethora of highly qualified professionals available that have extensive experience, expert knowledge, and specialize in working with adolescent clientele. Learning a variety of different coping mechanisms and various stress management skills from a qualified mental health clinician can behoove any teen and are likely to be useful long after his or her teenage years.  

For Information and Support

Every family in need of mental health treatment must select a program that will best suit the needs of their family. When one member of a family struggles, it impacts everyone in the family unit. To maximize the benefits of treatment we work closely with the entire family to ensure that everyone is receiving the support they need through these difficult times.

Seeking help is never easy, but you are not alone! If you or someone you know needs mental health treatment, we strongly encourage you to reach out for help as quickly as possible. It is not uncommon for many mental health difficulties to impact a person’s life, long term. Pursuing support at the beginning of one’s journey can put the individual in the best position to learn how to manage themselves in a healthy way so they can go on to live happy and fulfilling lives.

OUR KNOWLEDGEABLE ADMISSIONS TEAM CAN BE REACHED 24/7 AT INFO@PACIFICRTC.COM OR CALL: (866) 602-5512

We are available to answer any questions you may have regarding mental health treatment and our residential program, anytime. Contact us today using the form to the right.

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