The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist's Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults

“There are other misconceptions and myths about the teenage brain and teenage behavior that are now so ingrained they are accepted societal beliefs: teens are impulsive and emotional because of surging hormones; teens are rebellious and oppositional because they want to be difficult and different; and if teenagers occasionally drink too much alcohol without their parents’ consent, well, their brains are resilient, so they’ll certainly rebound without suffering any permanent effects.”

Here, Jensen clarifies one of the aims of her book: to dispel widely accepted myths about teenage behavior. The author does not deny that teenagers are often reckless, “impulsive and emotional.” However, by presenting the neuroscience explaining that behavior, she hopes to change negative misconceptions about adolescents. By introducing the book in this way, she establishes herself as an expert ready to enhance the misguided knowledge of the reader.

“So take the lead, take control, and try to think for your teenage sons and daughters until their own brains are ready to take over the job.”

Throughout the book, the author emphasizes the importance of active parental involvement in the adolescent years. Jensen argues that as teenagers’ brains are not fully developed, parents cannot step back at this crucial stage of development. Adolescents need guidance until they are capable of full responsibility and independence. The imperative verbs in this sentence epitomize the didactic tone of much of the book, and they suggest that Jensen sees parents as in need of almost as much guidance and direction as teenagers.

“Our best tool as they enter and move through their adolescent years is our ability to advise and explain, and also to be good role models.”

Jensen asserts that parents play a key role as mentors and guides to their teenagers. The author suggests that modeling good behavior and regular communication are essential tools in Supporting Healthy Brain Development During Adolescence. Her repeated use of the word “our” makes her seem part of the collective in an attempt to establish a connection between herself and her fellow parents.