Social and Emotional Development: Supporting Teenage Wellbeing

Understand the teenage brain

The teenage brain has numerous developmental differences. Recognising these can help us understand and empathise with teenage behaviour, fostering more constructive relationships.

On this four-week course from the University of Lincoln, you’ll delve into neurological, cultural and social aspects of the teenage experience, discussing how these influence behaviours and wellbeing. You’ll gain concrete guidance on how to improve your interactions with teenagers in either a professional or a caring capacity.

Examine the psychology behind teenage behaviour

Once you’ve understood teenage neurological and cognitive development, you’ll address the psychological drivers of teenage-specific behaviours.

You’ll look closer at teenage relationships and investigate the reasons for increased risk-taking among teenagers.

Discover social and cultural factors affecting teenage wellbeing

Next, you’ll consider teenage behaviours from a social and cultural perspective.

Focussing on the impact of social media and low self-esteem, you’ll explore how the social and cultural pressures on teenagers have evolved in recent years.

Develop strategies for supporting teenagers

In the last week of the course, you’ll reflect on how you can improve your own interactions with teenagers. You’ll compare and contrast approaches to supporting teenage wellbeing, developing strategies that you can apply in your own life and work.

You’ll finish the course with a better understanding of the teenage brain, and a more informed and empathetic way of engaging with teenagers.

This course is designed for anyone with a personal or professional interest in teenage behaviours, attitudes, and wellbeing.

Prior experience of working or interacting with teenagers would be useful, but no prior knowledge of teenage psychology is necessary.

This course is designed for anyone with a personal or professional interest in teenage behaviours, attitudes, and wellbeing.

Prior experience of working or interacting with teenagers would be useful, but no prior knowledge of teenage psychology is necessary.

• Describe developmental differences of adolescent brains.
• Explain psychological factors that affect the behaviour and attitudes of teenagers.
• Assess the ways in which social and cultural influences affect wellbeing in teenagers.
• Reflect on attitudes towards teenagers and how this may affect their engagement.
• Demonstrate an awareness of approaches that can be used to improve communication and engagement with teenagers.