The sharp snap of popping gum. The sarcastic roll of the eyes. The attitude in the flip of the hair. The rebelliousness in the strutted walk. These are just the beginning of the list of characteristics that teens have in the 21st century.

Secretly, the teenage stage of a child is dreaded by parents, because that is when the loud arguments start over the most pointless topics. Puberty is the battle call of the quarrels over “Who was the one who left the toilet seat up” and “Mom, you are embarrassing me stop that.”

When parents chat with other adults, the questions are heard as, “How is Jenny?” or “Is Adam doing well in school?” but in reality they are just masking the actual issue of “How are you faring with your devil?”

Adults expect teenagers to focus on school, locked up in their rooms studying till the end of time. They think teenagers should be obedient children, respectful to adults. They believe teenagers are up to no good, and need counseling to avoid traveling down the wrong road. In other words, teens are trouble.

Fortunately, not all adults think this way.

“I agree that some teenagers are challenging,” Spanish teacher Lori Sanders said. “But I think it is great to be around them. They have lots of energy and fresh ideas.”

The fine compliments don’t stop here. Sanders also believes that a teenager’s open attitude towards learning also helps open her mind to new views and perspectives.

In addition, English teacher Grace Edsel reflected on her experiences with her students.

“Your feeling towards them is maternal, like you want to care about them,” Edsel said.

Even though it may seem that all of the adults don’t understand you, or do not seem to agree with your opinion of the new trend of high-low dresses, just remember that there are people who acknowledge your presence.

“Teens feel like they can do anything, and it’s a great feeling,” engineering teacher Walter Lee said.