Adolescence

How can growing independence be supported rather than simply granted or withheld?

Being young does not make a feeling less real. Young people deserve to be listened to without every disagreement being explained away as their age.

Adolescence brings opportunities to explore identity, practise judgment and take greater responsibility. Readiness can differ between decisions, so adults need to consider understanding, circumstances and consequences rather than relying only on age or obedience. Young people need room to reflect on experience and hear feedback, alongside support and protective limits. Adults can also learn from listening. Disagreement is not itself evidence of immaturity, and growing independence does not mean being left to manage alone.

A question to sit with (optional): What decision could be shared or practised now, with support appropriate to its risks?