The functional limits of adolescence: dealing with the superego

Abstract Objective This article seeks to understand why adolescence is a phase of constant change, often characterized by fear, anxiety, and confrontations, examining the physical relationships in the brain and the psycho-emotional structure of adolescents. Method Through the psychoanalytic perspectives from Dolto, Freud, Roudinesco, and Zimerman, alongside neuroscience contributions from Blakemore, De Menezes, and Stefaniszen, this study aims to understand the plasticity of the adolescent brain. Result Observation of articularly the Prefrontal Cortex and Temporal Lobe ins adolescence – and the structure of the Superego. The goal is to provide an overview of boundaries, guilt, anxiety, fears, identity, self-observation, moral consciousness, and the formation of ideals in adolescence. Conclusion Adolescents exhibit certain behaviors such as excessive morning sleepiness, agitation, lack of attention and cognitive difficulties that, as the research indicates, are often part of a neurobiological structure and other times part of emotional symptoms. This research made these observations to help parents, health professionals and educators in caring for adolescents.