Lack of Cognitive Development in Teens

Rational Thinking

• A teenager's brain is developing at a high rate of speed, as is her body. According to the article, "Developing Adolescents," published by the American Psychological Association, the part of the brain responsible for rational thinking develops greatly during the teen years. The APA advises parents that often teenagers will argue just for the sake of arguing, as part of their cognitive development. As the part of the brain develops that runs logical thinking, it triggers a teen to question people and become more argumentative in general. The APA says parents still need to provided guidance to their teens, because this part of their critical thinking is just starting to develop, and they may be lacking in the ability to fully use their rational thinking abilities.

Extreme Behaviors

• As teens develop, they can experience outbursts in behavior. They are going through major hormonal, physical and cognitive changes. The American Academy of Pediatrics' HealthyChildren.org advises parents to watch out for extreme behaviors in teens as a symptom of cognitive development issues. The site's article, "What's Going On in the Teenage Brain," states that short, manageable outbursts of emotions are typical of teens. It recommends that parents be on the lookout for irrational reactions and behaviors. When teens exhibit extreme anger, or are inconsolable in situations where it is unwarranted, this can indicate cognitive development issues.

Sense of Self

• Rosemary Barnett, professor, Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, advises parents that the teen years are when humans develop their sense of self. Barnett says teenagers go through phases where they are incredibly self-critical. She says this leads to teens acting as though they are on a stage, as if everyone is watching them. Barnett says this development is what leads to teens acting in selfish ways and being dramatic. It is a normal part of cognitive development, and Barnett says it is a phase that should end by the time the teen reaches 20 years old.

Pulling Away from Parents

• During the teen years, it is normal for teenagers to start pulling away from their parents, according to child development experts at the Kids Health website. In the site's article, "A Parent's Guide to Surviving the Teen Years," writers say parents should allow for teenagers to start to make some of their own decisions. The site says teens start trying to find their identity outside of their parents, and normal cognitive development will cause them to pull away. Teens that remain overly attached to their parents may be exhibiting signs of lack of cognitive development and not have the self-confidence they should during this time.