With plenty of thought-provoking as well as laugh-out-loud examples, Dr. Pat Friman explains how “insane” behavior on the part of teens is actually normal considering the different rates of development of parts of the brain. Because the prefrontal cortex which guides reason and logic is still developing in adolescents, it is often overruled by the limbic system, the part of the brain that reacts with emotion. Wild outbursts, risk-taking (drugs, alcohol, and sex), and thoughtless or embarrassing behaviors are therefore regrettable, but not abnormal behaviors in teens.

Dr. Friman tells viewers which behaviors to address and how, and which behaviors should simply be ignored as teen “insanity” that will be outgrown as youth mature. His presentation, full of witty examples and wise advice, speaks directly to parents, caregivers, and educators who are looking to better understand and deal with the craziness of adolescence. Patrick C. Friman, Ph.D., is Director of Clinical Services at Boys Town where he and his staff work with and counsel hundreds of youth and families.

Watch these excerpts from the DVD!
• Is adolescent behavior insane?
• What teens can't see or hear.
• Criticism should be private.


Published by Boys Town Press
Format: DVD, 1 hr 15 min