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Adolescence Lasts Until Age 24 – Not Good News

Researchers believe the brain goes on maturing and is not fully developed until at least the age of 24. Puberty catapults adolescents into a period of risky behaviour powered by their raging hormones, their brains are ill-equipped to exert control and vulnerable to the effects of activities such as drinking and drug taking.

Despite its legal significance, 18 is no longer regarded as the start of adulthood. Fifty years ago, people married and started families at this age. Today these milestones are delayed, over three times more young people are in further education and most spend years in work before marrying and settling down. See full news article here

Other related news articles from same research

– English Daily Mail – Britain among the worst high-income countries for adolescent health behaviour.

– Australian Radio interviews

– ABC News (USA) – American Teens: Live Fast, Die Hard

Actual research paper can be found here (payment / subscription required)

 

 

Chris

Chris

Chris Hudson is an Australian Youth Specialist, Parent Coach, and Educator dedicated to helping adults build authentic relationships with teenagers. With over 25 years of experience, he shares insights on navigating the dynamic world of adolescence through his platform, Understanding Teenagers. When not coaching or speaking, Chris enjoys family adventures on the South Coast of NSW and playing very average tennis. He does not enjoy always losing when playing Nintendo with his kids.

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