One of the biggest myths is that teenagers are self-absorbed. The passion, loyalty to their group and friends, as well as assertiveness of their opinions, if appropriately interpreted, paint a completely different picture.

Sociologically they have a strength that is seldom recognized: they are highly capable of meaningful contributions to help those around them. The cognitive and emotional changes in a teenagers' mind are priming them to be an effective support to others. The fact that they take pride and self-satisfaction from it warrants that we allow them to act, to be heard, and to help. We know now that giving is a great mood lifter used in therapy and adult coaching for depression and trauma counselling and, less dramatically, simply for enhancing wellbeing. Giving has more impact on teenagers since their brains are so much more impressionable. It is a fantastic antidote to their own anger and other negativity that may incur and, potentially, a healthy way to navigate this tricky life phase.

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