Behavior Changes

 

Who took my adorable child and replaced him/her with a teenager?

7th Grade is not only a transition from elementary to middle school, it is a transition in behavior also. These behavior changes are normal and nearly everyone goes through them at one point or another. Knowing what changes to expect can make you feel "normal" and not worry about being different. It can also let parents know what to expect, so that they can react to you in a more positive way.

 

7th Grade Characteristics

Emotionally

* Emotionally intense highs and lows
* Think about yourself constantly
* Want privacy
* Want to be like everyone else
* Worry a lot - every little thing seems like the end of the world
* Wanting to be a kid some moments, and wanting to be treated like an adult the nextFeelings about Yourself
* Trying to figure out who you are and what you want
* Critical of your own appearance
* Difficulty in accepting praise

 

Parents
* Less participation with family activities
* More critical of parents
* Strong need for parental support
* Wanting to know your boundaries
* Want to feel appreciated and valued

 

Physically
* Restlessness
* Worry about appearance and fitting in
* Worry about physical changes
* Horseplay, active
* Attempt dangerous stunts thinking you are invincible
* Tired
* Hard to sleep at night, but hard to stay awake during the day

 

Dealing with Others
* Sense of humor and fair play
* You have a lot of personal interests - sports, band, art, etc.
* You want to fit in, but yet be unique
* You want a best friend or close friend
* You either hate or love school
* You are learning to work in groups
* You love to talk on the phone
* You are forming relationships with adults besides your parents - teachers, coaches, aunt, etc.