Every adult has passed through the teenage years and knows these years are not easy. Parents sometimes forget what it was like to be a teenager. Parenting teens can be difficult because they are experiencing so many changes and challenges, and parents are sometimes reluctant to see them grow up. Unresolved issues with teens can turn deadly. According to the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH), teenage depression leading to suicide is the third leading cause of death in 10 to 24 year olds. Remembering to parent with love and logic can help reduce tension and create a healthy parenting relationship.
Step 1
Remember what it was like to be a teenager and talk to your teen about what the experience is like for them. Create a dialogue by comparing similarities and differences.
Step 2
Ask questions in order to understand, not to accuse. Approach the situation calmly with a willingness to relate to your teenager.
Step 3
Give your teen an opportunity to give input when making a decision. Involve him in finding solutions or brainstorming ideas before refusing a request.
Step 4
Tell your teen that you love her. Remind her that any decision you make is based on your concern for her health and safety.
Step 5
Set clear boundaries and enforce them with some room for flexibility. Explain the reason for the boundaries instead of simply imposing them. Discuss consequences of violating these boundaries so you are both on the same page.
Step 6
Be willing to discuss practically anything. WIth so much immediate access to information via the Internet, Facebook, MySpace or Twitter, it can feel counterproductive for your teen to not be able to have open conversation with you.
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