Chapter One:  Cognitive changes

Physical changes are just one part of puberty.  In fact, the chemistry and structure of the brain are developing, too.  These changes include:

-         Advanced reasoning skills, such as the ability to simultaneously consider multiple options and possibilities

-         Abstract thinking, or the ability to imagine things that cannot be seen, heard or touched, such as faith, trust, beliefs and spirituality

-         The ability to consider how you feel and to think about what you are thinking, and to imagine how others perceive you

Because of these changes in the brain, you will be able to take a different perspective when analyzing and expressing things.  This can lead to a difference in the way you behave:

You may feel more self-conscious.  Teens often feel as if they have an "imaginary audience" of people who are watching them.

You may feel alone with your emotions.  Many teens believe that no one else has ever experienced similar feelings, and even become overly dramatic in describing things that upset them.

You may feel invulnerable. There is an unrealistic idea often seen among adolescents known as the "it can't happen to me" syndrome, which can lead to dangerous practices like drinking and driving, taking drugs, or smoking.

You may develop a stronger sense of ideals.  Teens tend to be cause-oriented, feeling personally for the suffering of others such as the underprivileged, refugees, or animals.

You may apply a strict sense of justice towards everything you see in the world.  Teens are quick to point out inconsistencies between adults' words and their actions.

	Daily life as you go through cognitive changes It can be very helpful to ask and think before acting - using different perspectives to observe things is an important step on the road to maturity.  At the same time, understanding the standards of your society, moral and social, can help you integrate into the world of adults and reduce friction.