Teens

Teens are undergoing dramatic changes. In addition to the biological changes of puberty, they experience cognitive changes that allow them to think more abstractly. They become increasingly focused on friends. And as they seek greater independence, they often come into conflict with parents. Most get through adolescence with few problems, establishing identities and preparing for adulthood. Some, however, experience problems that lead to dropping out of school, drug use or crime.

Adapted from the Encyclopedia of Psychology

Stress in America: Are Teens Adopting Adults’ Stress Habits?

The 2013 Stress in America ™ survey reveals that many American teens report experiencing stress at unhealthy levels, appear uncertain in their stress management techniques and experience symptoms of stress in numbers that mirror adults’ experiences.

What You Can Do

  • Facing the School Dropout Dilemma

    This article seeks to complement and supplement the APA resolution on school dropout prevention with data from more recent research on child development, early childhood education, and social and emotional learning that helps to define the school dropout dilemma.

  • Communication tips for parents

    Parenting is hard work, but there are things you can do to maintain a good connection with your children and keep the lines of communication open.

  • Staying connected: A guide for parents on raising an adolescent daughter

    Take a look at this informative brochure that covers topics including: puberty, peer groups, self-esteem, sexuality, mood swings, rebellion, and much more.

  • Resilience for teens: Got bounce?

    The ability to adapt well in the face of hard times is a valuable skill for young adults. Here are ten tips to begin your journey to resilience.

  • Teens

    A collection of research studies with a real-world applications, designed to help improve our understanding of teens with regards to bullying, suicide, smoking, rehabilitating juvenile offenders, coaching and reducing risky sexual behaviors.

Getting Help

  • Find a Psychologist
  • Parenting: The teen years

    The teen years pose some of the most difficult challenges for families. Teenagers, dealing with hormone changes and an ever-complex world, may feel that no one can understand their feelings, especially parents. As a result, the teen may feel angry, alone and confused while facing complicated issues about identity, peers, sexual behavior, drinking and drugs.

News

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Monitor on Psychology Articles

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Books

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APA Offices and Programs

  • Children, Youth and Families

    The Children, Youth and Families Office supports the work of the APA Committee on Children, Youth and Families and serves as liaison with other APA divisions, related organizations, state associations and federal agencies.