Teens often present a completely different side of themselves to their parents than they do to their peers. Teen boys are also known for frequently keeping emotions to themselves---particularly those that are difficult to deal with. Although this behavior can be normal, it may necessitate a bit of detective work on the part of a parent who wonders if her teenage son is beginning to have social or personal problems. When a teen is having problems, a parent's intervention can make the difference between a boy getting back on the right track or dealing with spiraling social and personal difficulties.
Step 1
Pay attention to his grades in school. Declining grades can be a warning sign of mental illness, according to the Ohio State University Mental Center. Although poor grades don't mean that your teenage boy has a mental illness, they do point to a problem of some sort. Poor grades can result from alcohol abuse, drug use and or an undiagnosed learning disability.
Step 2
Listen to your son. If he sounds angry much of the time, talks about running away or indicates that he dislikes himself, he may be suffering from depression or another mental illness. Excessive lying can also be a warning sign that something is wrong, as can withdrawal from conversation and other interactions with the family.
Step 3
Get to know your son's friends. Peer relationships strongly influence whether a teen will choose to engage in deviant behaviors, according to a study conducted by Meghan E. Hobbs at Miami University. If your son's friends are in trouble at school, at home or with the law, chances are your son is at risk for engaging in the same behaviors, if he isn't already.
Step 4
Look for physical signs that something is wrong. Changes in appetite, weight loss or gain or complaints about vague aches and pains may signal that your teenage son is having problems. Watch for changes in sleeping patterns as well, as insomnia or oversleeping can also be indicative of personal issues.
Step 5
Keep on the look-out for drug use. Drug use causes changes in your teenage son's behavior and affects his physical health. Physical and mental signs of drug use include moodiness, weight loss, red eyes and changes in sleeping habits. You may also notice that your son has made new friends, is spending more money and is behaving in a secretive manner.
Tips and Warnings
- If you think your teenage son has a mental health, behavioral or drug problem, contact a professional. The school guidance counselor is a good place to start.
