In this episode of Whatever! The Science of Teens, host Steve Cannane meets some teens with diverse backgrounds who are all known for a particular character trait: moodiness. Parents complain about how their perfectly sensible, lovable children turn into volatile, irrational adolescents seemingly overnight. The latest science shows that typical teenage negative moods aren’t only inevitable, but they are especially helpful and beneficial for growing up. However these opportunities also come at a cost. Being a teen is the most vulnerable time in our entire lifespan to develop a mental illness. About a quarter of Australian teens are suffering from mood disorders such as depression.

Originally released by Looking Glass International, 2009. Streaming video file encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on November 13, 2017.

Introduction: Teen Moods (3:23); --Teenage Moodiness (7:00); -- Seeking Social Acceptance (4:28); -- Dealing With Social Rejection (4:52); -- Adolescent Depression (4:44); -- Credits: The Science of Teens (1:00); .