Teen Brain Insights: Kristin Young on Navigating Adolescence and Addiction
As human beings we want to move towards things that take bad feelings away. But I feel like a lot of parents instead blame and shame, which I get because as a parent I've wanted to do that too, because it's scary, but it actually doesn't help.
Ever wondered why teens seem to be all over the place emotionally? In this episode of 'The Purple Effect', Natalie DeLaCruz sits down with Kristin Young, Clinical Director at Herren Project, to shed light on the intricacies of the developing teen brain. The conversation is part of the 'Talks w/ Kristin' series and dives deep into why young brains are particularly susceptible to addiction.
Kristin explains how the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control—doesn't fully mature until the early twenties. This leaves teens vulnerable to emotional highs and lows, making them more likely to turn to substances as a way to cope. But it's not all doom and gloom. Kristin stresses the importance of steering clear of blame and shame when addressing substance abuse.
Instead, she advocates for fostering healthy coping mechanisms and setting realistic expectations for young people. The episode also tackles the tricky issue of peer pressure and how it can influence teens' choices. Kristin offers practical advice on how to help teens navigate these challenges without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're a parent, educator, or a young person yourself, this episode offers valuable insights into understanding and supporting the emotional and mental well-being of teens.
Tune in for a mix of expert advice and empathetic conversation that aims to empower young minds.