Getting Through Difficult Times With a Teen Boy

The lament of many parents who begin their trudge through the teen years is, ̶0;What happened to my sweet child?!̶1; Teen boys can be a challenge as they struggle with balancing increased independence with the physical and psychological needs of adolescence. Although it may seem unbearable to parents at times, there are definite rewards when you learn how to get through the difficult teen years.

  1. Set Limits

    • A structured environment in which a teen is given limits might help keep difficult behavior in check. Psychologist Diana Baumrind studied findings from over 20 years of research focused on parenting styles, and found that parents who are too strict or too lax may create an environment in which children develop negative behaviors. Authoritative parents who set clear expectations and limits that are achievable are less likely to have struggles with their adolescents.

    Provide Guidance

    • Make sure that your teen boy has boundaries, but try to be flexible in your approach. According to the U.S. Department of Education's information regarding children and early adolescence, parents should guide teens instead of trying to control them. Teen boys who are given the opportunity to make mistakes will learn from these experiences. Parents should offer a helping hand when necessary, but let their teen boy navigate some of the trials of adolescence on his own.

    Allow Some Space

    • Just like adults, teenagers sometimes need time just to chill out. If a teen is upset or angry, he might simply need space, according to the online health resource website Helpguide.org. When your teen is very upset, let him be alone to think things through. He may need to express his anger through music or other means. Boys in particular may act out physically. Encourage him to perform physical exercises such as punching a bag or going for a run, as this might help him release pent-up frustration or anger.

    Listen Carefully

    • According to the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, communication is key to building a relationship with your teen. It is important that you stay open and honest and ensure your teen boy feels safe enough in his environment to speak with you about important issues. When your teen engages you in conversation, be sure to actively listen by making eye contact and reciprocating to let him know you are interested in what he has to say. The more you listen, the more he will likely talk.

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