What Changes During Adolescence?

Find a therapist to support kids and teens

Violent behaviors among teenagers and pre-teens have noticeably increased.

Societal, psychological, and cultural factors explain this troubling rise of youth violence.

Encouraging critical thinking and respectful dialogue helps children to face challenges without violence.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in disruptive and even violent behaviors among young people, including incidents such as shootings, stabbings, robberies, and property damage committed by teenagers and preteens.

According to The New York Post, youth crime in New York City hit historic highs in 2025, when 14 percent of shooting victims and 18 percent of shooters were youths. The New York Post underscores that gangs have been specifically recruiting young members to carry guns for robberies, assaults, and shootings, thus shielding older gang members from serious consequences.

In the same vein, last year, Oakland police announced the arrests of seven people, including three juveniles, in multi-agency raids across the Bay Area for violent crimes, including murder, shootings, and armed robberies. The same report pointed to an increasing number of cases of young teens committing violent crimes, particularly robberies, shootings, and murders. According to the report, it's not uncommon for groups engaging in this kind of criminal activity to recruit and retain juveniles.

This troubling trend has raised significant concerns within communities, prompting discussions about the underlying causes.

Explanations for youth violence

Several interconnected societal, psychological, and cultural factors may help explain this trend.

Change of psychological norms. The rise of positive psychology and educational approaches that emphasize self-esteem, individuality, and unrestricted emotional expression can sometimes result in unclear boundaries for children. Without firm rules or limits, there is a risk of diminishing the development of morality and the internalization of societal norms, sometimes described as a weakening of the "superego."

Limited emotional vocabulary. Many young folks struggle to articulate their frustration and anger, and this plays a significant role in their behavior. Without the vocabulary to express complex feelings, these emotions may be acted out through behavior rather than verbal communication, leading to impulsive or aggressive actions.

Social media and technology. The pervasive use of social media platforms like TikTok can foster dependency and reduce opportunities for creative or constructive outlets for emotions, such as sublimation. This dependency may limit critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making it harder for young people to manage their impulses in healthy ways.

Decline of religion and traditional structures. The decreasing influence of religion and its associated rituals, laws, and principles in many communities means some young people may lack a framework of values, discipline, and a sense of belonging that these structures once provided.

Shift in education philosophy. Educational philosophy has changed. Positive education approaches that prioritize freedom and self-direction can sometimes be misinterpreted as a lack of discipline, leading to environments where there are few consequences for inappropriate behavior.

Parental disengagement. Some parents may feel overwhelmed or not well-equipped to enforce boundaries and instill values, especially as schools increasingly focus on academic knowledge rather than character development. This abdication of responsibility leaves young people without consistent guidance at home.

What Changes During Adolescence?

Find a therapist to support kids and teens

Overall, the convergence of these factors creates an environment where some young people are more likely to act out, sometimes in extreme or violent ways. Addressing these issues may require a renewed focus on emotional education, clear boundaries, meaningful adult engagement, and opportunities for healthy self-expression. By implementing such measures, communities can help young people develop resilience and healthier coping mechanisms. This proactive approach not only reduces the likelihood of negative behaviors but also fosters a supportive atmosphere where youth feel valued and understood.

“Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent,” stated Isaac Asimov in Foundation. Therefore, it is our responsibility to empower the youngest to solve problems through rational, peaceful means. By fostering critical thinking and encouraging respectful dialogue, we can help children develop the skills necessary to navigate challenges without resorting to aggression. Instilling these values early on creates a foundation for a more harmonious and understanding society.

Fenton, R., Marino, J., Woods, A. (01/06/2026) NYC youth crime hits historic highs in 2025, as parents blame Raise the Age law. The NY Post.

Castaneda, C.E., Pehling, D. (03/03/2025) 3 teens among 7 arrested for violent crimes, including murder. In multi-agency Bay Area busts. CBS News.

Asimov, I. (1951). Foundation. Gnome Press.

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