Being A Teen Is Hard

Teenagers are at a difficult age when
they’re no longer seen as children
but are not yet considered adults.
Their hormones are racing, they
may be struggling with sleep, they’re
under pressure from friends & the
media, & their schoolwork is more
important now than ever. These are
just some of the issues that can lead
to the mood swings & emotional
outbursts that we commonly
associate with teenagers. This can be
worth remembering when handling
problems & difficult situations with
your teenager.

Privacy

Teenagers may kick up a fuss about
being old enough to look after
themselves but the truth is that
teenagers don’t always make the right
choices. Setting out some ground
rules makes it clear that they are
being looked after & despite the fuss
that they make about being in charge
of their own lives, the boundaries
actually make them feel safe &
secure.

Being Different

Teenagers need to show to the world
that they are growing up & are no
longer an extension of you. This might
mean being awkward or stroppy &
doing things you probably wouldn’t
like but it is important we understand
their need to be different.

Listened To

Sometimes teenagers think you’re
not giving them a chance to make
their case. If you want teenagers to
listen, then you should try to make
the effort to listen as well. Show
them that their ideas & opinions
matter, even if you disagree with
them. Try to negotiate something
that is fair to you both & then let
them take responsibility for their
own decisions.

Boundaries

Teenagers can worry about their
appearance & bodies, as well as
the feelings & thoughts they are
experiencing. Whether it is lack of
self-confidence or just a curiosity
about the way their bodies are
developing, they need time to sort
out things for themselves. Give them
space & don’t take it personally if
they prefer not to talk to you.

Love

Despite the cool & distant image,
they are still in need of care &
attention. Do not let them fool you,
they still need their parents around
to offer support & guidance.