How to Turn Your Troubled Teenage Child into a Responsible Adult

Parenting a normal teenager is hard enough. Mood swings and emotional outbursts are a given. A troubled teen is another matter entirely, say Lawrence Robinson and Dr. Jeanne Segal in the article, "Help for Parents of Troubled Teens," on the Help Guide website. A troubled teen may skip school; experiment with sex, drugs or alcohol; exhibit violent or criminal behavior; or show signs of mental health issues such as an eating disorder, anxiety or depression. It's easy to give up on a troubled teen out of frustration and exhaustion, but it's never too late to help her become a responsible adult.

Instructions

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      Listen to your teen, and he will be more likely to listen to you. Teenagers need their parents just as much as younger kids do. Help him feel valued and loved by taking the time to find out if anything is bothering him. Listen to him without showing anger, frustration or judgment, says psychologist Dr. Phil McGraw in the article, "Advice for Parents of Troubled Teens," on his website. Show him how to communicate effectively and he will use these skills throughout his life to help him develop healthy, secure relationships and act in a responsible way.

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      Spend quality time with your teen. Work out what she is most passionate about and show a desire to learn more about her hobby. Don't push her into doing something just because you think it's a suitable pastime. Let her pursue her own interests, whether they involve computer games, extreme sports or going to rock concerts. If you don't make yourself available to your teen, she is more likely to seek out others who are -- others who may not be a good influence on her.

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      Help your teen find a positive outlet for feelings of anger, sadness, depression or frustration, suggest Robinson and Segal. Exercise, meditation, writing in a diary or playing an instrument may bring relief and provide your teen with a form of self-expression that will help him stay focused, secure and healthy throughout his life.

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      Set a positive example for your teen. Show her what it means to be a responsible adult. Treat others with respect. Teach her to be accountable for her actions by admitting when you are in the wrong, and accepting the consequences of your actions. Live a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

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      Consider enrolling your teen in a rehabilitation program if his behavior is out of control, he has an addiction to alcohol or drugs or he is involved in crime. You may feel that his troubles are simply too much for you to deal with alone. Take advantage of the help and support that is available to you. Counseling may help your teen identify the reasons for his behavior and learn the skills to cope with life in a more positive, productive way. Look for a support group for parents of troubled teens in your area. Speaking to others who have had similar experiences to yours can be extremely therapeutic.

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      Seek professional help if you think your teen may have a behavioral disorder, such as ADHD or ODD. Make an appointment with your primary care doctor, who will be able to refer you to the most suitable health care professional for diagnosis and treatment.

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