Teenagers have a bad reputation for being difficult during this notorious stage of life. The truth is that it doesn’t have to be as difficult as it’s cut out to be. Even though it can be challenging, there are ways to tackle the challenges by knowing the right tips. Take a look at some of the best pointers for handling difficult teens.
Be Consistent
One of the worst things you can do which encourages difficult teen behavior is being inconsistent about your rules. Always stick to the same rules without changing them — even occasionally.
If your teenager feels like they managed to bend the rules once, then they’ll likely try to do it every time. Be consistent and you’ll establish clear boundaries and avoid them trying to overstep your authority.
Don’t Give In
One of the things that most teenagers have in common is their ability to push their parents’ buttons. Even though it may seem impossible not to react, you can’t give in.
Giving in means giving away your power and allowing them to have control over your feelings. If you find it difficult to stay calm when your teenager is acting up, try to learn some soothing techniques like deep breathing. The more that you react, the more that they’ll win. If you truly want to stop the bad behavior, you have to keep your cool.
Communicate
Professor John Powell famously said “communication works for those who work at it.” Meaning that the more you try to level with your teen, try to understand where they’re coming from, and, in turn, explain where you’re coming from, the more that your relationship will benefit from communicating.
Unfortunately, sometimes it can be difficult getting teenagers to communicate with you. It’s helpful to lead by example when trying to get them to open up.
The more open and vulnerable that you are, the more that you’ll allow them to be the same with their feelings.
Be Compassionate
At some point, all parents were teenagers. So, remain compassionate about this often emotionally trying period of a person’s life. Rather than reacting to every little thing, and getting upset, try to keep your cool and be compassionate.
Teenagers are famous for being dramatic about trivial or seemingly nonsensical things. Instead of laughing at them, give them room to have feelings. Rather than telling them, they are overreacting, try offering a solution instead.
Give Them The Benefit Of the Doubt
Before you assume that all teenagers aren’t trustworthy, give them the benefit of the doubt. There is no need to assume the worst if they haven’t committed any offenses yet. Once they’ve betrayed your trust, then they need to earn it back. However, until that happens, give them the chance to be honest, and show you their good intentions.