Here are 5 tips for parents raising teenagers going through a “rebellious phase”:
1. Parents, be patient, tolerant, and understanding of your teen’s behavior
Teenagers going through a rebellious phase can be a source of disappointment for adults as they often fail to follow family and school rules.
They believe they are old enough to have their own opinions and thoughts and do not want to be controlled or told what to do, even by their parents.
While this can be worrying for parents, it is important to learn to be patient, understanding, and tolerant. During this crucial phase, parents should focus on shaping their teen’s character and be more receptive to listening to their child. Allow them to make mistakes and learn from them.
This is also a phase where teenagers are most susceptible to mimicking adult behavior. Therefore, it is important to lead by example and ensure your actions and words have a positive influence on your teen.
Parents, be patient and understanding. (Illustrative image)
2. Avoid arguing with your teen and don’t embarrass them
Teenagers going through this phase tend to be hot-tempered and may feel that everything their parents do goes against their wishes. They may express feelings of helplessness, fatigue, anxiety, and loneliness.
It is important for parents to first understand their child’s circumstances during this time. While it may not be easy to stabilize their emotions and provide guidance, it is possible with the right approach and timing.
For instance, if your teen is being particularly defiant, offering advice or trying to reason with them may only lead to further resistance. Instead, wait for a moment when they are calmer and more receptive to having a conversation.
3. Give them their freedom and strive for positive communication
Instead of expecting your teenager to rely on you as they did when they were younger, recognize their need for personal space.
Take the initiative to communicate with them regularly to understand their desires and aspirations. However, avoid topics related to school, academics, and grades, as these can be sensitive issues during this phase and may cause them to feel pressured or doubt their abilities.
Start conversations with light and enjoyable topics, such as weekend plans or their friends, and only bring up academics once their emotions are stable and you can do so subtly.
4. Seek help from others
During this phase, teenagers often become less communicative with their parents, making it difficult for parents to understand their thoughts and feelings.
In such cases, it can be helpful to reach out to other trusted individuals in their lives, such as classmates, relatives, or other family members, with whom they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
By doing so, parents can gain insight into their teenager’s psychology and ask these individuals to offer helpful advice to their child. This two-fold approach can help parents navigate this challenging phase without driving their teenager further away.
5. Avoid making assumptions
When faced with a rebellious teenager, it is important for parents to avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions. Recognize that it is normal for teenagers to go through a phase of rebellion, and understand that it can have positive aspects as well.
For instance, it may indicate a strong will, competitive ambition, and a desire for self-improvement. Try to uncover the creativity within their rebellious nature and guide them constructively. Turn their weaknesses into strengths, and refrain from harsh criticism.
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