High Drama @ Home: What's A Parent To Do?

Another fantastic NPR piece on moody teens!

Taryn Cregon and her 13-year-old daughter Zoe have a typical relationship that alternates between high drama and loads of love. Taryn is confused and mystified by the sudden shifts and is frequently hurt by Zoe’s sudden outbursts.

Pediatrician James Chattra explains that biology is largely responsible--critical changes occur in the prefrontal cortex (the “thinking” part of the brain) during the teen years. About half of the "thinking" neurons in certain regions of the brain, Chattra says, are literally "wiped out."

If parents are no match for biology, can anything be done? Yes, says author Laura Kastner, who along with Jennifer Wyatt wrote a recent book, Getting To Calm: Cool Headed Strategies For Parents Of Teens & Tweens.

She encourages parents to take actions that specifically engage the “thinking” part of brain. Activities like journaling or self-reflection letters can de-escalate situations while moving teens past episodes of emotional frenzy.

At Thrive Research, we agree. In fact, we’ve developed an online solution that incorporates these types of exercises while building core skills such as mindfulness, self-reflection, and emotional regulation.

Get started here and give your favorite teen every advantage in developing a healthy brain and emotional life.

photo courtesy of Taryn Cregon