Circadian rhythm Quote by Richard Guare
““Neurotransmitters are chemical-like substances that travel between nerve cells across a synapse and determine whether a nerve signal keeps going or halts. Levels of two of these neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, decrease during adolescence. The decrease in dopamine results in mood changes and problems with emotional control. The decrease in serotonin results in decreased impulse control. A third neurotransmitter, melatonin, increases in adolescence. Melatonin is responsible for circadian rhythms and the sleep–wake cycle. Its increase results in a need for greater sleep.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Adult Years: Mastering the Art of Self‑Direction, Richard Guare, 1995
Adolescence brings hormonal shifts that affect mood, impulse control, and sleep, influencing behavior and decision‑making.
In simple terms: Teen brain changes affect emotions and sleep.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hormonal impacts on teen behavior.
Themes
development
biology
adolescence
neuroscience
Mood
empathetic
informative
Type
educational
practical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- mental health counseling
- sleep hygiene programs
Key Concepts
neurochemistry
psychology
developmental science
Questions to Reflect On
- How can adults support teens navigating these neurochemical changes?
- What strategies help teens manage mood swings and impulse control?
A Different Perspective
Hormonal changes are only one factor; social and environmental influences also play major roles.
![“We're not really sure why it [broken circadian rhythm] continues, but when they become adults, we usually have to treat it because many people need to get up early to go to work and they can't be sleeping until 11:00 or 12:00. So we use treatments like bright light therapy, melatonin, things like…” quote by Shelby Harris](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7da/shelby-harris-10520_adults_we-re-not-really-sure-why-it-broken-circ_173576.jpg)
