07776
A Parent's Guide to Teens: The Growing Season Book
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Decision Making Preview
Girls and boys make decisions differently Researchers
have found that girls and boys tend to make decisions
differently. Boys are less likely to use their
critical thinking skills than girls. Boys typically
want a "quick fix" and will try to guess for solutions
rather than think through situations to determine
the best possible solution.
Young Teens (12-15 years of age)
Young teens are able to think more abstractly which
helps them to find their own solutions to problems.
At this age, teens should have the capability to compare
and select alternatives. You can help by teaching your
teen to:
- Listen to others.
- Make requests.
- Ask questions.
- Put together and carry out a plan.
- Find resources.
- Observe change.
- Determine personal values and priorities.
- Think about the future.
- Manage time.
- Look at issues from someone else's viewpoint.
At this age, you may find your teen questioning your decisions.
Teens want to know the reasons behind your decision. Your
teen is also learning that your opinions are just that-opinions.
Your opinions are not the law nor necessarily what other people
believe.
Older Teens (15-18 years of age)
During this stage, teens make decisions based on their personal
values. They are also able to understand how their decisions
impact others. It is important for teens to be making long-range
decisions concerning their future. You can help by teaching
your teen to:
- Ask clear-cut questions.
- Understand the impact of risks.
- Search out new information on his own.
- Express her own opinions and values.
- Think of alternative plans.
- Manage his time and money.
- Think beyond himself.
- Deal with adversity.
- Prepare for changes.
