Some people think that the teenage years are the happiest times of most people’s lives. Others think that adult life brings more happiness, in spite of greater responsibilities. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that teenagers are the happiest people, and cite their lack of responsibilities as a significant factor. They are supported financially and emotionally by their parents, and

although

they may be included in family decisions, they’re not ultimately responsible.

However

, adolescents are on the threshold of adulthood: they’re old enough to get a part-time job, so they can enjoy their

first

taste of financial independence, and their future study and career that lies ahead. Away from these serious concerns, young people have an active social lifestyle with their friends, often simply by hanging out with them. And of course, there’s the excitement of

first

love and

first

heartbreak. With all

this

to experience, teenagers see their parents’ lives as boring and stressful.

Nevertheless

, the alternative statement is

also

true. Adults see anxious, melodramatic adolescents, and appreciate the joys of maturity. These may include contented family life, long-lasting friendships and a career. Long-term relationships may not have the fireworks of adolescence

,

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but are stronger for it because of the wealth of shared experience. At work, many of us are challenged and stimulated by the increasing professional skills we acquire, which ensures that our jobs remain interesting.

For instance

, there is a difference between working adolescents and adults. The greatest benefit, though, is that maturity gives you greater confidence in your own judgement, in all areas of growth. You’re not afraid to express your opinion when others disagree and, unlike a teenager, you know when to let things go. Both these periods can be happy times, but I look back at my own teenage years with no desire to go back. Adult lifestyle may be less dramatic, but fireworks don’t keep you warm.