272: Why Is My Teen Bombing Tests?

272: Why Is My Teen Bombing Tests?

From Ask Lisa: Untangling Family Life by Dr. Lisa Damour

May 19, 2026 · 35 min

About this episode

This episode explores why capable teens struggle with tests despite their efforts and offers research-backed strategies for parents to help.

Your teen does everything right. Homework done. Pays attention. Stays organized. Has study skills. And still struggles with tests. ​​Sound familiar? You're not alone, and this is not your kid's fault. In this episode of “Ask Lisa,” clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and Reena Ninan dig into one of the most frustrating and confusing problems parents face: the capable, motivated teen who just can't seem to perform on assessments. Drawing on the science of learning and memory, Lisa explains exactly why this happens, what's actually going on in your teen's brain, and how you can help without turning study time into a battleground. 💡 YOU'LL LEARN: - Why being great at class has almost nothing to do with being great at tests - Why the transition to high school catches so many teens (especially boys) off guard - The study habits that feel productive but actually don't work (and what to do instead) - A step-by-step approach to starting the study skills conversation with your teen - Why your teen probably won't take your advice, and who they will actually listen to - How to broker the right kind of help so your kid feels supported, not managed Whether your teen is heading into finals…

People in this episode

Hosts: Dr. Lisa Damour, Reena Ninan

Topics covered

  • teen testing struggles
  • study skills
  • learning and memory
  • parenting advice
  • high school transition

Keywords

  • teen tests
  • study habits
  • learning difficulties
  • parenting
  • high school
  • academic performance

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