Working with kids during the teen years is difficult for even the most patient and understanding parents. It’s simply a challenging time of development for this age group which makes communication vital but tough in most cases.
So, what’s a parent to do when their teenager is going through an especially problematic phase?
- Set boundaries
Communicating clear, consistent limitations (along with potential consequences for inappropriate actions) may feel harsh at first, but it is a healthy step for both parent and teen. Remember, teenagers are never too old for consistency and structure, and enforcing boundaries early is creating healthy relationship skills for their future! I highly recommend Boundaries With Teens by Henry Cloud and John Townsend.
- Get help for yourself
Expressive support during this time is crucial. It can be emotionally draining when your teen is not making the best choices and struggling with you and other authority figures. This is when having supportive friends of your own (and possibly a professional counselor) can be helpful.
- Seek professional help
Sometimes teenagers have a hard time communicating or getting down to the root of their behaviors with their parents. In some cases, the out-of-control conduct may be related to an underlying mental health issue that could be contributing to the behaviors, so a professional therapist can help. Remember, abuse, self-destructing acts, and illegal actions are not acceptable behavior for anyone.