Siegel opens up this section of the book with the story of Katey. This story hit home because I think there are many Katey's in this world. Throughout all the different stories regarding teenagers, he explains that there are common themes. These themes stem from the development in their brains. Siegel writes the effects that dopamine can have on the brain. I gained so much more understanding of the "why" behind the actions. Katey was fully aware of the negative consequences of her actions and yet she still did it. She along with most all other adolescence care more about their idea of the positives such as the thrill or impressing their peers. When adolescence have this mindset, the risk seems worth it because they aren't able to think big picture.
I enjoyed the story of his son's friend Benji when explaining the effects of peer pressure on adolescence. This story was almost funny because of the phrase, "If your friends jumped off a cliff would you do it too?" In Benji's case, he sure did. Because he was in the presence of all of his friends, he jumped off a fifty foot cliff and broke his leg. If Benji was alone, he would still have two full functioning legs. Teenagers reduce the focus on potential risks of the situations when they are with their peers because they get caught up in the idea of impressing people. Looking back at all situations I was in or even that I heard about this is the main motive for doing dumb things.
Seigel continues to drive the point home that "Adolescence is not a stage to simply get over, it is a stage of life to cultivate well" (74). He intends us to switch this negative view we have on teenagers that they are immature to a positive view that they are simply in a crucial stage of development both physically and mentally. I agree with his statement, but I think as parents or authority to teenagers this shouldn't excuse their rude behavior. There is still a strong need of discipline in these stages. As adults we shouldn't say, "Oh, it's okay that they ran away from home they are just clinging to their peers more now." It is possible for adults to discipline teens with grace.
I like how you mentioned the stories Siegel told throughout the assigned reading. I believe the story of Katey is one that many people can relate to in today's society as we both realize that. You're right - thrill and the feeling of temporary satisfaction has the ability to drive a teenager's brain and life into the wrong direction. Good post!
ReplyDeleteYes most parents have a lot to learn about the development of their children at different stages and need some help separating the "can'ts" vs. the "won'ts" If parents could do this well while considering development we would see more discipline where it's needed and more nurturing where it's needed as well. Good post
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