Parenting Teenagers

parenting teenagers, raising teens, dealing with adolescents

Trust vs. Control

When speaking with parents, one issue comes up over and over again. Parents are frustrated because their teenager does not listen to them anymore.

Some are focusing on finding answers how to regain control of their teenager while others are wondering how to build a good relationship.

It is possible to regain control by restricting your teenager and forcing him to do as you say. You can monitor their every move and bombard them with questions.

Your teen, however, will most likely respond by avoiding you and family time, lying, dropping grades or even running away from home. He also will be very frustrated, feel confined, and count the days until he is 18 and out of the house.

Most parents I talk to are looking to build a lasting relationship with their teenager. They want their son or daughter to come to them for advice and input on difficult situations they are facing - not just during their teen years but also later on in life.

Some parents who try to "let go" or to give their teenager more space are having difficulties adjusting their parenting style or are not sure where to begin.

Up until now, they were at their child's side to protect him from injury and prevent actions that could have an unfavorable outcome. Now they're asked to let their teen be independent and to give them some room, but are wondering what is enough and where to draw the line.

Your teen wants to have some input about his life and to be allowed to make some decisions. Your teen needs to gain confidence in himself and his decisions. Parents also need to gain confidence that their son or daughter can make right choices and decisions.

Keep in mind that your teenager is not asking to make major life decisions such as whether going to school or drop out. All your teen wants is decision-making power regarding what clothes to buy or who his friends are and when to do her homework.

Give your teen the opportunity to make small decisions. You can still monitor, but do it from a distance. You might find out that your teen is capable of making right choices and good decisions based on the principles you instilled in him so far. With every right choice your trust in your teen's ability will grow and it will be easier for you to give your teen a little more rope. For your teen every inch is a boost to his or her self confidence, making your teen more and more secure and capable.

On the other hand, you might find out that your teen lacks the knowledge to make informed decisions. As long as he is still living with you, you have the opportunity to help and support him. Instead of scolding or punishing him, point out what and where he went wrong and how to better handle this particular situation or task the next time.

By discussing what went wrong and analyzing the facts, your teen will gain confidence in you and your advice. He will be more likely to ask for your help or advice the next time.

parenting teenagers, raising adolescents, help with teens

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Do you need help with specific teenage issues?
Issues like letting your teen know you care? Or monitoring their activities without breaking their trust? Or perhaps even stronger issues like alcohol, drugs, or “the wrong crowd”? Then Christina Botto's new series Fitting the Pieces is exactly what you are looking for. Find out more…