Behavioral/Emotional Problems Testing for Teens
Helping Teens with Behavioral and Emotional Challenges
Adolescence is a time of major change—socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. While it’s normal for teens to experience ups and downs, ongoing struggles with behavior, mood, motivation, or relationships may signal a deeper issue that needs to be understood and addressed. Neuropsychological testing can help uncover the root causes of these challenges and provide a path forward.
Teenagers may show signs of difficulty through:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Persistent anxiety or sadness
- Outbursts or defiance
- Withdrawal from family or friends
- Drop in grades or school attendance
- Trouble concentrating or completing tasks
- Low self-esteem or lack of motivation
These symptoms can have a range of underlying causes, including:
- Depression or anxiety disorders
- ADHD or executive functioning issues
- Learning disabilities
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Trauma or chronic stress
- Substance use concerns
When to Consider a Neuropsychological Evaluation
It may be a good time to consider a neuropsychological evaluation if:
- Emotional or behavioral concerns persist for several months and are interfering with daily life
- Academic performance declines despite effort and support
- Your teen has difficulty managing emotions, seems constantly overwhelmed, or is withdrawing from normal activities
- Teachers or school staff express concern about attention, motivation, or behavior
- Your teen has a prior diagnosis but symptoms have changed or interventions aren’t working
- You’re unsure whether symptoms are related to mood, learning, attention, or something else
These evaluations are especially helpful when there are multiple overlapping concerns, and families need a comprehensive understanding of how emotional, cognitive, and academic factors interact. Understanding what’s really going on can be a powerful first step toward helping your teen feel more confident, connected, and capable.
