Changes in the brain and the search for acceptance explain why young people share more secrets with friends; Understand the benefits
When teenagers begin to share secrets with friends instead of resorting to parents, many guardians can interpret as a sign of removal. But science shows that this change is part of the natural growth process and, in fact, it can indicate healthy development and emotional maturity.
A brain of transformation
Adolescence is marked with intense brain changes. At this stage, the region linked to emotions works quickly, while the area responsible for controlling reactions and decisions is still under construction. This failure to correspondence makes young people more sensitive to the eyes of colleagues and eager for social acceptance.
Classic studies on development psychology have already shown that when there is a basis of trust and affection at home, the teenager feels more comfortable in creating solid bonds outside of it. That is, the link with friends does not replace the family member – he adds.
Friendship as a life workshop
The ties of friendship adolescence act as a sort of essay for adulthood. The research indicates that by living with their peers, young people learn to negotiate, develop empathy, resolve conflicts and offer emotional support.
It is the step in which they begin to try a support network outside the family, discovering in practice how to relate more autonomously. Keeping a secret with a friend or asking for advice from a colleague is often the way they find their independence.
The emotional benefits of friendship
Close to friends they can be true shields against the typical anxiety and the stress of teenagers. Scientific research shows that young people who maintain trust relationships with their peers have less symptoms of social anxiety, more well -being and greater sense of support.
More recently, long -term studies have strengthened this conclusion: the more significant teenagers are formed, the greater the emotional balance over time.
The role of parents in this process
Seeing a child preference to friends does not mean loss of importance in his life. On the contrary, it is the possibility of cultivating a more mature and trusted relationship. Some attitudes can help:
- Avoid contesting space. Charging details on conversations or friendships can lead to removal;
- Respect silence. Being available, without pressure, is more effective than insisting;
- Be a discreet presence. Phrases like “If you want to talk, I’m here” transmit safety;
- Cultivate proximity. Shown as a person, not only as authority, strengthens the connection.
Way for maturity
The teenager who trusts the most friends is not refusing his parents, but exercises their autonomy. It is a natural movement: to build identity, learn to balance links and prepare for adult relationships.
In the end, what remains is the certainty that, as far as they seek support in peers, young people return home when they know that they find in it a safe space, without judgments – and a port always available to welcome them.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
