Your Brain’s Not Done Yet

If you’re in middle school, you are considered an adolescent. 

According to Mirriam-Webster, adolescence means:

“The state or process of growing up”

You’re still a kid, but on your way to growing up. Psychologists have a somewhat different view. They see things in terms of development, particularly development of the brain. Here’s what Psychology Today has to say about adolescence:

“Adolescence describes the teenage years between 13 and 19 and can be considered the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood. However, the physical and psychological changes that occur in adolescence can start earlier, during the preteen or "tween" years (ages 9-12). Adolescence can be a time of both disorientation and discovery. The transitional period can bring up issues of independence and self-identity. During this time, peer groups and external appearance tend to increase in importance.”

Suffice it to say, there’s a lot going on in your brain. It’s still developing and forming. It won’t really be considered “done” until you’re into your mid twenties. 

Until then, you’re going to be more likely to act without considering the repercussions, you’re more likely to put more stock in your friend’s opinions than your parents, and being part of a group will be of paramount importance. 

It’s the acting without fully considering what happens next or what could happen that worries me. Let’s face it - adolescents, and teenagers in particular, do a lot of dumb things. They take risks and don’t consider the consequences.

What’s the number one cause of death for adolescents? 

Unintentional injury.

Car accidents, skateboard accidents, skating accidents and drowning, just to name a few of the top sources of unintentional injury.

Going forward, you’re to going act impulsively - but try to stop for a second and consider what could happen. What’s the downside if things go wrong? You want to have fun but you want to grow up too, right?

Wear your seat belts, don’t ride in a car where the driver is texting and driving (and in the future, don’t text and drive), and wear a life vest in a boat.

When Mom or Dad yells at you to put your helmut on - put your helmut on. 

Your brain’s not done yet - it needs extra protection, often from you. Give it the best chance possible to grow, develop and become something fantastic.