제니퍼 파이퍼(Jennifer Pfeifer): 청소년기 뇌의 놀라운 과학

청소년기 뇌의 놀라운 과학

신경과학자 제니퍼 파이퍼(Jennifer Pfeifer)가 청소년기라는 중요한 시기 동안 젊은 세대의 행동을 좌우하는 흥미로운 뇌의 변화를 탐구합니다. 사춘기, 호르몬, SNS와 정신 건강의 관계 등 우리가 청소년에 대해 흔히 하는 오해를 짚어보고, 이 성장과 가능성의 시기를 아이들이 잘 통과할 수 있도록 어떻게 도와야 하는지를 보여줍니다.

Developmental psychologist, brain scientist

Adolescence, stretching from ages 10 to 25, is a period of rapid growth and remarkable potential—not a problem to be fixed. Scientific research shows that the real drivers of mental health in young people are relationships, self-image, and family well-being, not just biology or technology. For example, social media use is linked to only a small increase in depression risk, while having strong friendships and mentally healthy parents has a much bigger impact on adolescent well-being. Rethinking the adolescent years helps society support, rather than shame, the next generation.

Teen Brains Aren’t Broken, They’re Built For Transformation

Adolescence, spanning ages 10 to 25, is a critical period of brain, body, and identity growth often misunderstood as a problem to be fixed. While society blames hormones or technology for struggles like anxiety, research shows relationships and support matter most for mental health. Excessive social media use raises depression risk by only a few percentage points, while strong friendships and family support provide far greater protection. Reframing adolescence as a time of opportunity unlocks the potential of young people and those who care for them.