Kids R Cool

Teenagers are often upset, confused, frustrated and depressed as they try to learn about being an adult and face problems on their own. It can be difficult to know how to respond to these feelings.

Arguing, ordering, lecturing, ignoring or being angry with teenagers won't help. Instead, show them you understand or are trying to understand by:

-listening to them
-showing you are listening by looking at them
-talking about the feeling as well as the action
-not assuming you know the meaning of what they say - let them tell you
-not judging or analysing them
-asking about what they are doing, what they're interested in or what they think about issues without prying
-sharing your feelings with them.
-not asking too many questions!

Teenagers should also remember that shouting at and ignoring their parents won't help either.