What Changes During Adolescence?

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Adolescence is a period of development but it's not "just" a phase.

A key developmental task of adolescence is individuation, and it's not linear.

Physical and psychological separation is another adolescent task and they need parents' help.

As a psychotherapist, I’m gifted a front-row seat to the wonderful world of adolescence. It really is a privilege to hear about their experiences and be invited into their internal worlds as they share their thoughts, feelings, fears, and fantasies. Everyone I’ve met over the three decades I’ve been supporting teenagers and young adults is unique, of course, and what we talk about is confidential, obviously, but there are some things I’d like parents and carers of teens to know, and they would like you to know, too.

1. It’s not “just” a phase

Young people are frequently told that whatever they’re going through is “just a phase,” the implication being that they’ll grow out of it, get over it, or change their minds about whatever “it” may be. Preceding anything with the prefix “just” is minimising and disrespectful. You’re not “just” a mum. They’re not “just” a kid. It’s not “just” a phase. Adolescence is a period of development, sure, but it’s a significant life stage, and those who are........

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