How Teens
Solve Problems

Print Article Email article to a friend »

Teens usually have better eyesight, hearing, coordination, reflexes and even better learning abilities than their parents. But because the decision-making and problem-solving areas of their brains are less developed, they can't always make good decisions quickly. This is especially true when it comes to driving – where hundreds of tiny decisions must be made just to get from home to the corner store.

How Underdeveloped Problem-Solving Can Affect Teen Driving

When teen drivers face complex driving situations, they're more likely to:

• Get confused
• Be indecisive
• Have trouble figuring out the consequences
• Panic
• "Freeze up"

It's important for parents to introduce teens to these situations in a safe and supervised setting. Practicing with your teen can help. So can mental rehearsing and role playing. If teens face new driving situations without the chance to practice or rehearse first, they could face greater risks.