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A Parent's Guide to Teens: The Growing Season Video and Guide

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Adolescent Development

Emotional Changes

The hormones that trigger growth can also cause mood swings. Some days your teen is way up and other days way down. Experts generally agree that the period of extreme emotional changes begins at about age 11 to 12. Thirteen and 14-year-olds are often irritable, excite easily, and are more likely to explode than to control their emotions. Fifteen-year-olds, on the other hand, try harder to cover up their feelings and therefore may appear to be more moody and withdrawn. By the time teens reach age 16 or 17, they are capable of taking a calmer approach to life and usually experience far less moodiness.

These emotional changes are the result of many changes and stresses taking place during the early teen years. Self-esteem can decline during these years. Young teens are much more likely to feel unhappy about their looks and, sometimes, are unsure of their abilities.

Teens do not want to be embarrassed. Teens often worry about "fitting in" and being popular. Teens have concerns about behaving correctly in social situations, knowing what to talk about, and interacting with members of the opposite sex.