Teens ages 15-19 are actively seeking ways to assert their independence with confidence but may also feel vulnerable and fragile about their future adult lives. They will naturally test limits and break rules. In fact, some of the conditions of adolescent development increase the likelihood that they will break rules, such as your teen’s need for risk taking, their desire for increasing independence, their sexual curiosity and development, and their need to belong and seek the approval of peers. This is a natural part of their development and necessary for their learning and growth.