The 18-year-old Disney actress said that she thinks the media is often too hard on young stars.
She told Boston radio station KISS 108 FM, "It's a very hard business, and I feel like people don't really understand what we go through.
"We're kids. People make mistakes. People have to figure out what we like and don't like."
But she added that her family have helped her avoid the pitfalls that affect some young celebrities.
"I have parents that treat me like a normal kid. I know that I have a responsibility to my fans," she said.