Parents of high school students in Gympie will have the opportunity to quiz USC academics on a range of teenage issues, from road safety to understanding the adolescent brain.

USC has partnered with local high schools to present a series of free lectures aimed at providing Gympie parents with insights into raising happy and healthy teenagers.

The first presentation at Gympie State High School on Thursday 14 September will cover the vital role that parents can play in keeping their children safe behind the wheel.

Parents can join the question and answer session with the leader of USC’s Adolescent Risk Research Unit, Dr Bridie Scott-Parker, from 4-5pm.

Dr Scott-Parker will offer practical advice based on her extensive research into the risky behaviour of young drivers.

“Inexperience on the road, combined with an invincible mentality, means that Learners and P-platers are some of the most vulnerable drivers,” she said.

“In fact, when P-platers first start driving by themselves without supervision, they are at much greater risk of being involved in a car crash.

“The good news is that there is a lot parents can do to guide their children and teach them safe driving practices.”

She said exercise, fatigue, sensation-seeking and anxiety could also affect the behaviour of young novice drivers.

A second lecture to be held in partnership with Victory College on Wednesday 4 October will be delivered by USC Associate Professor of Education Michael Nagel, an authority on adolescent behaviour and brain development.

On Thursday 12 October, Senior Lecturer in Psychology Dr Rachael Sharman will present at Cooloola Christian College on understanding teenage moods and improving communication.

— Clare McKay