Teenagers are growing up and exploring all the possibilities the world has to offer them. Teenagers may lack expression and can be difficult to talk with. A desire for independence can leave teenagers feeling like parents are too overprotective and still view teens as children. As a result, your teenager may come across as hardheaded. Dealing -- or communicating -- with a hardheaded teenage can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are ways to look out for your teenager while still providing him with a sense of independence.
Step 1
Give your teenager responsibility. Avoid arguing with her about grades and chores. Allow your teen to do homework and study as she feels necessary. Only discuss homework and studying should grades become a problem. Additionally, provide your teenager with responsibilities around the house -- such as making dinner one night a week. Avoid instructing your teenager on what she should make or how she should do it.
Step 2
Realize the arguments amongst teenagers and parents are bound to happen. Let your teenager express his feelings. Control your emotions even if he says something that makes absolutely no sense. Encourage your teen to avoid becoming rude and raising his voice during an argument. Encourage a conversation between two adults. Listen and ask questions to come to a reasonable agreement.
Step 3
Acknowledge the fact that your teenager will be faced with tempting situations -- including drugs, smoking, sex and alcohol. Teach her that is is okay to decline and encourage her to ask any questions she may have. Encourage your teenager hanging out with friends with similar values -- teens who do well in school and avoid tempting teenage situations. If your teen will not talk to you about these temptations, try starting a discussion by beginning with current events or a teenage-show relating to sex, drugs and drinking.
Step 4
Allow your teenager to earn your trust. Avoid snooping and being overly suspicious of his activities and friends. Create reasonable rules for your teenager -- including curfew, Internet rules, cell phone rules and places he should not hang out. Let your teenager know there are consequences to breaking the rules.
Step 5
Talk in the car. Cars let teenagers talk to you without being forced to make eye contact. This may allow your teenager to bring up subjects she may be uncomfortable talking about with you face-to-face.
Tips and Warnings
- If a conversation or argument with your teenager becomes too heated, walk away and continue the conversation later to avoid saying things you do not mean.
