How parents can help teens avoid life-altering decisions

Even the best teens can make one bad decision that changes everything. Peer pressure or impulsive choices can lead to consequences that affect their futures or even cost them their lives. Fortunately, parents can take steps to intervene before it’s too late.

The prefrontal cortex, which controls decision making, isn't fully developed until the mid-20s. This makes teens more impulsive, meaning they think about instant gratification instead of long-term consequences.

To help minimize the risks teens take, experts say parents can,

1. Set clear rules and consequences
2. Turn mistakes into learning moments
3. Encourage ownership of decisions, including facing consequences
4. Maintain open communication
5. Discuss daily experiences and challenges