What Do Teenagers Commonly Crave?

Attention from Parents

• Teenagers want independence and often struggle to find their own identities, so they need parental supervision, love and support as they journey through the teen years. A teen needs attention from his parents as badly now as he did when he was a young child, according to pediatrician Kenneth Ginsburg in Psychology Today. He craves attention from his parents because he wants assurance they will always be there, especially when he faces challenges or he feels his world is falling apart. Parents are a security blanket and teens need the moral, financial and emotional support they offer. Some teens might even act out or misbehave if they feel their misconduct is the best way to get parental attention.

Food

• Teen food cravings are normal because their hormonal bodies are growing and developing. Teenagers often feel hungry and eat frequently throughout the day and night. Most teens want instant gratification, so junk food and fast food are quick fixes for their hunger pangs. Dr. Mary Gavin, writing for KidsHealth.org, recommends substituting healthy snacks for junk food when a teenager gets a craving. For example, teens who crave salty foods might substitute whole wheat pretzels for potato chips or carrots and low-fat dip for nachos.

Good Grades

• Not all teenagers like to admit it, but many have a strong desire to get good grades. They feel good about themselves when they please their parents, teachers and academically minded classmates. Teens understand that good grades and honorable recognition give them the legitimacy they crave, according to FamilyEducation.com. Good grades are a sign that they have a positive future and that a college education and fulfilling career opportunities are within their reach.

Peer Approval

• Teenagers crave peer approval because they want to feel that they belong. They often join cliques or peer groups to satisfy their desire to be accepted by others their age. Because acceptance is so important, some teens change their clothes, speech, behavior, choices, activities and interests so they fit in with their peers, says medical social worker Angela Oswalt on SevenCounties.org. Parents can encourage their teen to find positive peer groups that don't compromise their teen's standards, beliefs or priorities.