Helping Teenagers Survive the Difficult Years

The teen years are some of the most difficult years in growth process. We’ve all been there, but as society changes, so do the hurdles faced in the quest to become an adult. So, how does a parent deal with an obstinate teenager and still keep his or her sanity?

What are They Thinking?

Teenagers are in the difficult phase between childhood and adulthood. They are striving to live as adults, but they often lack the maturity necessary to make substantive decisions on their own. It is a well-known fact that teenagers think they know it all. This isn’t true for all teenagers, but the vast majority won’t listen to the advice of their parents or family. They rely on the advice of friends and others in their peer group who also lack experience and maturity. As a result, teenagers learn the most vital and often the most difficult lessons by trial and error. In other words, they must learn the hard way.

Curfews and Consequences

Although a teenager is old enough to take care of their most basic needs, they still require guidance. They need rules to follow in order to stay in control, safe, and sometimes out of trouble.

It’s important to know where your teenager is going, even if he or she appears to be responsible. As a parent you have a right to know where your teen is spending his or her time. Convey to your teen that everyone, even adults, should let someone know where they are going and when they plan on returning. This is important for safety reasons, and it’s common courtesy.

Even if your teenager is 18 years of age, set a curfew. Making an acceptable deadline for returning home shows you care where your teen is as well as what they are doing. Make it clear what the consequences will be if he or she is late, and what is most important, stick to your guns. If you set a curfew and don’t follow through, your teen will realize he or she can get away with breaking the rules.

Manners and Feelings