Communication Conflict Between Teens and Parents

Significance

• Open communication facilitates healthy relationships. As teenagers are still exploring the world around them, communication with parents is key. While teens are going to learn from mistakes, being able to discuss decisions and consequences will make for a more productive growing process.

Causes of Conflict

• According to Better Health Channel, negative communication between parents and teens can cause lasting communication conflicts. Even with the best intentions, parental nagging, nonconstructive criticism and harsh language can serve as roadblocks to effective communication. Failing to listen to your teen can exacerbate the problem. Communication cannot be effective and one sided, and "talking to" a problem will not resolve it.

Solutions

• Approaching difficult conversations with a positive attitude goes a long way to preventing negative communication. Don't assume communication will fail before you try. Regular and consistent communication, even about little things and more mundane issues such as current events or even the weather can help you and your teen practice communication and prevent communication conflicts. Active listening, meaning responding to and absorbing what your teen has to say, and only then responding to their concerns or points creates a positive environment for family communication.