7 tips for dealing with teenage attitudes

Dealing with teen behaviour can be extremely challenging for parents, so here are 7 tips for dealing with teenage attitudes.

Whether it's breaking house rules, talking back, or sneaking around, it can feel like teens are constantly testing our patience and authority.

If this is what you're experiencing, or you have a child nearing their teens, here are 7 tips for dealing with teenage attitudes.

7 tips for dealing with teenage attitudes

1. Set the right tone: It's important that you control your temper and show your teen how adults deal with issues. Take a step back if you need to and then approach the conversation when you feel cool, calm, and collected.
2. Stay calm: This one is key. If you lose your temper then you're teaching your teen that it's acceptable behaviour. It's also impossible to sort any issue if you're just shouting at each other.
3. Listen: Think back to when you were a teenager. The biggest issue is often that they feel misunderstood. Taking the time to listen and empathise will make your teen feel seen.
4. Make them feel safe: If you create a safe space where your teenager feels comfortable to talk to you without the fear of judgement or punishment, it'll help them better regulate their emotions and learn how to navigate those big feelings.
5. Talk it out: Communicate, communicate, communicate! We can't stress this enough. It may not have been the way it was in your home when you were growing up, but it's so important you make it part of your parenting. A problem shared is a problem halved, and it's creating healthy habits for when your teen is an adult.
6. Be patient: There's no overnight solution here, and addressing the issue longterm will take perseverance and persistence. Positivity breeds positivity and your effort will be rewarded.
7. Ask for help: The mistake we often make as parents is thinking we're alone in this. And that couldn't be further from the truth. Turn to friends, family, or support groups. If your teen's behavioural issues are particularly extreme, you can speak to a counsellor or a therapist and schedule some sessions for them.