Working with teenagers is great! However, it can be challenging to do Youth Ministry if you don't understand how they think and develop. Watch the video recordings of LEAD222's Summer Training and join the Director of Coaching Larry Ely as he shares 4 Teen Psych Tips to help you reach students better.
TRAINING PART 1: Cognitive Development & Moral Development
TRAINING PART 2: Faith Development & Identity Formation
PART 1: SUMMARY
1. COGNITIVE Development: Jean Piaget
Key Point: Moving from Concrete to Abstract thinking is pivotal for teenagers.
Key Questions:
How does cognitive development affect faith development during adolescence?
What are the implications for how we teach the Bible to teenagers?
PRO TIP #1: ENHANCE Your Teaching with a…
Skit, Story, Object Lesson, Illustration, Video Clip, Song, or Interactive Experience
2. MORAL Development: Lawrence Kohlberg
Key Point: Teenage morality is a work in progress.
Key Questions:
How does moral development affect faith development during adolescence?
What are the implications for how we teach right & wrong and the issue of sin?
PRO TIP #2: PATIENCE, Truth, & Role Models Are Key
PART 2: SUMMARY
3. FAITH Development: James Fowler
Key Point: Relational & Incarnational ministry are vital
Build relationships, community, teach & live the Gospel
Key Questions:
How does faith development affect student ministry during adolescence?
What are the implications for spiritual growth & how we teach faith?
PRO TRIP #3: RELATIONSHIPS & Life Application Matter
4. IDENTITY Formation: Erik Erickson
Key Point: The search for IDENTITY is huge for teenagers.
Key Questions:
How does identity formation affect spiritual growth during adolescence?
What are the implications for how we can help students build their identity in Christ?
PRO TRIP #4: AFFIRM they are Loved, Accepted, & Belong
Author: Larry Ely • Posted: July 2025
Event: LEAD222 Summer Training
