Puberty Truths: Myths Parents Must Stop Believing Now

Myth 9: Mood Swings Mean Something’s Wrong

Yes, teens can seem like emotional rollercoasters—but that doesn’t mean something is wrong. Mood swings are a normal, biochemical part of puberty, driven by fluctuating hormone levels and developing brain pathways. The prefrontal cortex (which governs impulse control and decision-making) is still under construction, while the emotional centers of the brain are firing on all cylinders. That combo can lead to intensity, not instability. Labeling your child as “overly dramatic” or “irrational” can shut down communication. Instead, normalize the emotional shifts, stay calm, and offer a safe landing zone. They're not broken—they're becoming.

Myth 10: Puberty Only Affects the Body, Not the Brain

Puberty isn’t just a physical transformation—it’s a neurological one. The adolescent brain undergoes massive rewiring during this phase, pruning unused connections and strengthening others to prepare for adulthood. This brain remodeling affects everything from decision-making to empathy, risk-taking, and social processing. What may look like impulsiveness or forgetfulness is often just the brain recalibrating. Understanding this can help parents shift from judgment to curiosity. It’s not about excusing poor behavior—it’s about recognizing the brain is still learning how to lead. Support, not shame, builds long-term emotional intelligence.