Emotional/Social Changes

• More concern about body image, looks, and clothes.

• Focus on self, going back and forth between high expectations and lack of confidence.

• Moodiness

• More interest in and influence by peer group.

• Less affection shown toward parents. May sometimes seem rude or short-tempered.

• Anxiety from more challenging school work.

 

Mental/Cognitive Changes:

• More ability for complex thought.

• Better able to express feelings through talking.

• A stronger sense of right and wrong.

• Many teens sometimes feel sad or depressed. Depression can lead to poor grades at school, alcohol or drug use, unsafe sex, and other problems.

 

Positive Parenting

Trust is important for teenagers. Even as she develops independence, she will need to know she has your support. At the same time, she will need you to respect her need for privacy.

 

• Be honest and direct with your teenager when talking about sensitive subjects such as drugs, drinking, smoking, and sex.

• Encourage your teenager to get exercise. He or she might join a team or take up an individual sport. Helping with household tasks such as mowing the lawn, walking the dog, or washing the car also keeps your teen active.

• Meal time is very important for families. Eating together helps teenagers make better choices about the foods they eat, promotes healthy weight, and gives your family time to talk to each other.

• Meet and get to know your teenager’s friends.

• Show an interest in your teenager’s school life.

• Help your teenager make healthy choices while encouraging him to make his own decisions.

• Respect your teenager’s opinions and take into account her thoughts and feelings. It is important that she knows you are listening to her.

• Make sure your teenager knows about the importance of wearing seat belts.

• Encourage your teenager to wear a helmet when riding a bike, motorcycle, or all-terrain vehicle.

• Talk with your teenager about the dangers of drugs, drinking, smoking, and risky sexual activity. Ask him what he knows and thinks about these issues, and share your thoughts and feelings with him. Listen to what she says and answer her questions honestly and directly.

• Talk with your teenager about the importance of having friends who are interested in positive activities. Encourage him to avoid peers who pressure him to make unhealthy choices.

• Know where your teenager is and whether an adult is present. Make plans with her for when she will call you, where you can find her, and what time you expect her home.

• Set clear rules for your teenager when he is home alone. Talk about such issues as having friends at the house; how to handle unsafe situations (emergencies, fire, drugs, sex, etc.) and homework or household tasks to complete.