Adolescence is the time of transition between childhood and adulthood. The adolescent seeks his or her own identity and autonomy. To achieve this, it is necessary to separate from parental figures, although it is not easy because he/she is not yet mature enough.
Psychologist Cinthia Sanchez Pacha explains that one of the most typical behaviors of adolescents is to seek freedom, but when they see the responsibility that comes with this freedom and the adult world, they look the other way. Therefore, there is an internal conflict between the dependence they still feel with their parents and the need for independence. This internal struggle is expressed through fights and conflicts with the parents, since they are the pillar from which they want to detach themselves and at the same time their source of security.
What to do with hormonal changes in adolescence?
The change in attitude can be disconcerting for parents and make them feel insecure, since the strategies they used before no longer work. That is why it is necessary to adapt to these changes and modify the rules for more flexible and negotiated limits with the adolescent. In this way, the relationship between parents and children evolves and changes, but the bond always remains.
A level of intergenerational conflict plays a very important role in the development of adolescents and the functioning of the family. In the family environment young people learn to solve problems by maintaining relationships and tolerating differences of opinion. Therefore, family stability is essential for an adolescent. The emotional balance, temperance and stability that they lack at this time of life must come from their family.
What changes occur in adolescents?
Adolescent behavior is not only associated with hormonal changes, but also with modifications at the neuronal level. Adolescence is the perfect time to build a better brain, as it is more sensitive to learning. At this time the child looks back to childhood and reflects. External control now becomes internal, so they are able to direct their attention to mental processes.
On many occasions, adolescents are influenced by their peer group, their opinion, their acceptance… so what parents say is no longer taken into account, but now they compete with the group of friends.
Another characteristic is the creation of personal identity. What differentiates us from the rest and makes us unique. The development of this identity is closely related to how the adolescent feels and is. Although it sometimes seems the opposite, adolescents need to be recognized and accepted by their group of friends and parents.
Adolescence is a very reflective stage, which is why adolescents spend most of their time in their room, self-absorbed and/or absent-minded. Studies reveal that, due to bodily changes, there is an enormous expenditure of energy, so a passive attitude reflects the need to replenish their strength.
Adolescence has good and rewarding things, and one of the tasks of parents is to look for them. Parents should think that there is a treasure in them, and look for it with confidence to find it. If they do not believe it, it is as if it does not exist.
An external mediator can help at this stage. At the EGR Medicine Institute we have specialized professionals who can provide strategies and support to overcome conflicts that may arise, as well as enhance the qualities that the adolescent possesses.