One of the most counterintuitive truths about adolescence: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Adolescence Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of adolescence
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking adolescence is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging adolescence without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing adolescence to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for adolescence while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Adolescence
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting adolescence, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Adolescence
Many people find that when they stop fighting adolescence and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of adolescence is partly the struggle against it.