How to Get Along With Teenagers

Getting along with teenagers can seem like an impossible task at times. Even if you have a good relationship with your teen, you might find that he seems withdrawn or even hostile as he struggles to individuate herself from you. Adding to the challenges, your adolescent's brain is still developing the mechanisms involved in emotional and impulse control, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Remembering this can help you keep your own emotions in check as you deal with your teen's, resulting in a more harmonious relationship.

Instructions

    • 1

      Talk to your teen's other parent about your expectations for your child. Come to an agreement on rules and discipline so you can present a united front. Even if your teenager gets angry with you for enforcing rules and consequences, he'll know what to expect from both his parents.

    • 2

      Listen to what your teenager has to say. Even if your teen just wants to talk about the music he likes or the current drama with friends, show an interest. Let him talk when he needs to talk, and respect his silence when he doesn't.

    • 3

      Respect your teen's need for privacy. Unless you suspect something very serious is going on and that he'll come to harm, stay out of his room, journal, text messages and email. An exception is social media, which you should monitor to make sure he is only receiving communications from people he knows in real life.

    • 4

      Allow him to make his own decisions and go out alone, as long as he proves he can be trusted. Praise him when he makes good decisions. Telling a teenager you're proud of his maturity is a welcome compliment.

    • 5

      Discuss problems rationally, without personal attacks. Focus only on the issue at hand. If your teen is too emotional to do so, tell him you'll talk when he can do so calmly and constructively. Ask him how she wants to solve the problem, tell him how his behavior makes you feel and collaborate on a solution.

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