Poor Behavior As a Result of Teen Stress

Forms of Stress

• Teens experience new challenges on a regular basis, whether they are trying to ace a test, win the hearts of their latest crushes, deal with their parents' divorce or cope with a move to a new area. The teenage years are, by their very nature, stressful and tumultuous. Dealing with hormonal changes and trying to establish a strong sense of self are challenging enough. But according to website Teens Health, certain issues can overwhelm a teen's natural ability to cope with stress especially if they occur for extended periods of time. Some of the common stressors a teen might experience include ongoing learning difficulties, bullying, emotional difficulties related to serious family issues or an over-burdened schedule.

Poor Behaviors and Stress

• Stress overload can be a common cause of poor behaviors even in teens who have effective coping mechanisms and strong sources of support. The American Psychological Association reports that stressed teens might engage in a wide range of poor or negative behaviors, depending on the teen and the type of stress she is experiencing. Mild forms of stress in teens can result in increased moodiness or irritability, withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed, crying or sleeping too much or too little. Significant forms of stress can result in more problematic behaviors, such as hostility toward family members, ending contact with friends for no apparent reason or avoiding parents for extended periods of time. Sometimes, teens who can't manage their stress levels may engage in deviant behaviors, such as drinking, experimenting with drugs or cutting classes.

What Parents Can Do

• Many teens try to handle stress on their own and won't turn to adults for help, according to family sociologist Ronald L. Pizter in a publication on teen stress for Purdue University. It's important to address your teen's behaviors as soon as possible. Certain behaviors can worsen over time and result in serious issues, such as depression or truancy. Talk to your teen in an open, honest and direct manner, thus letting her know you are concerned and want to help. Sometimes, just knowing that someone cares is enough to alleviate a certain amount of stress. But avoid giving false assurances or saying things such as "Don't worry, things will get better" or other vague comments. Even though you mean well, this will most likely make your teen feel like you're trying to brush off her problems. Instead, show your teen you are confident in her abilities and you are willing to help in any way possible. You might also encourage her to try helpful stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation or exercise.

Warning

• Sometimes, seriously distressed teens resort to self-harm or even suicidal behaviors. If your teen seems to have given up hope, experiences depression or engages in harmful behaviors, do not hesitate to seek professional intervention. There's no shame in admitting that you can't handle it on your own, and seeking help is actually a sign of parental concern and strength. Consult your child's pediatrician for a referral to a child psychiatrist or another licensed mental health professional who specializes in working with children and adolescents. Treatment can help teens cultivate healthier coping mechanisms, reduce problematic behaviors and circumvent the development of serious mental health issues.