: Focusing on the discovery of intense feelings and the vulnerability of opening up to another person for the first time.
: Keeping a sense of self, continuing to spend time with friends, and pursuing individual hobbies outside of the relationship.
: High-stakes emotions are common as the adolescent brain is still developing the prefrontal cortex, which manages impulse control and long-term planning. Common Romantic Storylines
: The ability to discuss feelings and disagreements openly rather than "ghosting" or using passive-aggressive social media posts.