The Teen Years Explained; A Guide to Healthy Adolescent Development
© JHB School of Public Health
Here's a book that you might want to get hold of if your child is entering the adolescent years: The Teen Years Explained; A Guide to Healthy Adolescent Development
You can download an indexed PDF (navigation links are on the left and at the bottom of the page), or to order copies here or order from order from Amazon.com
Not sure you need help understanding your teen? Test your knowledge of these popular myths about teenagers:
Myth: Teens are bigger risk-takers and thrill-seekers than adults.
Fact: Teens perceive more risk than adults do in certain areas, such as the chance of getting into an accident if they drive with a drunk driver.
Myth: Young people only listen to their friends.
Fact: Young people report that their parents or a caring adult are their greatest influence-especially when it comes to sexual behavior.
Myth: Adolescents live to push your buttons.
Fact: Adolescents may view conflict as a way of expressing themselves, while adults take arguments personally.
Myth: When you're a teenager, you can eat whatever you want and burn it off.
Fact: Obesity rates have tripled for adolescents since 1980.
Myth: Teens don't need sleep.
Fact: Teens need as much sleep or more than they got as children-9 to 10 hours is optimum.