Many unhappily married couples wait until their children are in their teens to divorce. They figure divorce will affect them less when they are starting to build lives of their own anyway. But divorce can bring some unique pressures and losses for teens. Knowing this can help you to be a better single parent. Teens […]
You can do a lot to help your teen cope with the stresses in his life. Here are some easy simple techniques you can put to use today: • First, spend time with your teen. Listen to him. Express love and let your child know that he is loved and valued as a person, whatever
More than 5,000 teenagers kill themselves each year. Suicide is one of the major causes of death among 15-24 year olds. What are some of the warning signs? Depression is a major factor in suicide. Watch for symptoms like eating and sleep disorders, mood changes, withdrawal – especially withdrawal from friends – irritation, sudden changes
Teens need to know about the very real dangers of drug use and alcohol abuse, but they eventually turn off when they hear too many grim statistics. They need to hear positive reasons not to use substances. Here are some techniques you can use: • First, the best way to solve a problem is by
If you were to ask a group of teens, ” What’s the greatest problem you and your friends face?”, chances are the answer would be “Stress”. Today’s teens are much more likely to have earlier stressful experiences with loss. For example, parents are more likely to be divorced today. Teens often feel that working parents
There is much you can do to help your teen resist negative peer pressure. The following are some of the best ways to help. • First, teach your teen by your own good example. Don’t smoke, drink too much or drive too fast. Say no to friends when you need to. The teen can see
The decision to get professional help for your teen or your family is a painful one. Therapy itself is not inexpensive. How can you make the best use of this professional help? • First, approach it with realistic expectations. Change takes time, but each session can be an important step in building communication, confidence and
What do you when your teen says no to much needed counseling or therapy? • First, express your own willingness to participate. Some teens are willing to participate in family therapy. This way he or she doesn’t feel singled out and stigmatized. Family therapy can be quite effective in handling a serious teen problem. •
Does your teen have headaches, stomachaches and other ailments on school days? Does he express fear of going to school because of problems with peers or a teacher? Does she frequently cry or oversleep on weekday mornings? Does he stubbornly refuse to attend school most of the time, or sneak back home after you’ve left
Communication barriers are habits that get in the way of good parenting communication. These include: 1. Labeling and belittling. Saying things like, “What do you know? You’re just a kid!” or “You’re a disappointment to me.” This paves the way for total lack of communication. 2. Ordering, prescribing and lecturing. Saying things like, “Do it
