Let's face it, parenting teenagers can be a thankless job.
Often times parents are on the lowest part of the influential totem pole. Teens
today seem to have much more emotional and social issues than 20 years ago. There
can be many reasons why your teenager is distant, angry and/or anxious. As a
parent, it is difficult to watch your teen struggle while they reject any type
of assistance or care that you are providing.
Part of being a parent is understanding when to not push
your teen for communication. Too much inquiry pushes them further away and too
little sends them a message of not caring. Sometimes a quiet unconditional gesture
of love can still be present without words. This skill is not always easy to
execute especially when your teen knows how to push your buttons. It is
important to make sure there is consistency in discipline and structure in the family
expectations. This can help your teen navigate social and emotional changes knowing
that home is a safe predictable environment.
If your parent instinct is telling you something more is
going on than just the usually teen angst, it probably is. Some teens may need
additional support, and most of the time teenagers will listen to anyone but
their parents. Finding professional counselors that share the same family morals
and values is important because those therapists become an extension of your
family.
At Grace Counseling, Inc. we work with adolescents and
families to help teens learn how to effectively navigate stress. We offer
specialized small groups for teens who struggle with uncomfortable emotions,
disconnection from family members, risky behaviors and procrastination.
Grace Counseling, Inc. | Coral Springs, Fl.
