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A groundbreaking look at the teenage brain for anyone who has puzzled over the mysterious and often infuriating behavior of a teenager. While many members of the scientific community have long held that the growing pains of adolescence are primarily psychological, Barbara Strauch highlights the physical nature of the transformation, offering parents and educators a new perspective on erratic teenage behavior. Using plain language, Strauch draws upon the latest scientific discoveries to make the case that the changes the brain goes through during adolescence are as dramatic and crucial as those that take place in the first two years of life, and that teenagers are not entirely responsible for their sullen, rebellious, and moody ways. Featuring interviews with scientists, teenagers, parents, and teachers, The Primal Teen explores common challenges-why teens go from articulate and mature one day to morose and unreachable the next, why they engage in risky behavior-and offers practical strategies to help manage these formative and often difficult years.… (more)
User reviews
Pros
- Gives some perspective to those of us frustrated with illogical, emotional behavior. There are scientific reasons for this. We don't get angry and yell at a baby for pooping in his diaper because that's what babies do.
-Several real life examples that will strike most as familiar.
- Solid science to share with teens about the possible LIFELONG brain impact that drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes may have. This part made me cringe a little. Even common college drinking may possibly cause significant damage.
- Explains the serious sleep deficits kids are dealing with. What can we do about this re: school schedules, heavy activity schedules, and even ..yes my hardcore teacher friends... backing off on homework!
- While reading this book I found myself chuckling while dealing with my classes and my own kids instead of getting angry. For that alone, reading this book is worth it.
Cons
- The author sometimes gets bogged down in the science. All I need to know is that a reputable study reached certain conclusions and what they mean to me. I don't want to walk through the steps of the study and what people did with rats.
-As far as brain research goes, this book is a bit dated (2002 or so). A lot has happened in the field of brain research. That is why I STRONGLY recommend also reading The Shallows by Nicholas Carr. These two books together will forever change how you look at kids and even yourself. And that's no hyperbole!