An internationally respected neurologist offers a
revolutionary look at the brains of adolescents, providing surprising
insights—including why smart kids often do stupid things—and practical advice
for adults and teens.
In this groundbreaking, accessible book, Dr. Frances
E. Jensen—a mother, teacher, researcher, and internationally known expert in
neurology—introduces us to the mystery and magic of the teen brain. One of the
first books to focus exclusively on the neurological development of
adolescents, The Teenage Brain presents new findings, dispels widespread
myths, and provides practical suggestions for negotiating this difficult and
dynamic life stage for both adults and adolescents.
Interweaving easy-to-follow scientific data with
anecdotes drawn from her experiences as a parent, clinician, and public
speaker, Dr. Jensen explores adolescent brain functioning and development,
including learning and memory, and investigates the impact of influences such
as drugs, multitasking, sleep, and stress. The Teenage Brain reveals
how:
- Adolescents
may not be as resilient to the effects of drugs as we previously thought.
Occasional use of marijuana has been shown to cause lingering memory
problems, and long-term use can affect later adulthood IQ.
- Multitasking
causes divided attention and can reduce learning ability.
- Emotionally
stressful situations in adolescence can have permanent effects on mental
health and may lead to higher risk for certain neuropsychiatric disorders
such as depression.
Rigorous yet accessible, warm yet direct, The
Teenage Brain sheds new light on young adults and provides practical suggestions
for how parents, schools, and even the legal system can better help them during
this crucial period.
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“Neurologist Jensen, a divorced mother of two
teenage boys, and science writer Nutt liken the brain of a teen to a
brand-new Ferrari: ‘It’s primed and pumped, but it hasn’t been road
tested yet. In other words, it’s all revved up but doesn’t quite know
where to go’…The authors of this sensible, scientific, and stimulating
book advise parents of teens to set limits, stay involved, be cognizant
of the emotional needs of their children, and remain positive.”
—
Booklist