Parenting A Troubled Teen

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Parenting a troubled teen can be trying, even for the most patient parent especially when it comes to coping with authority problems. During adolescence, a child may feel like everything is changing: his body, hormones, emotions, and worldview. He deals no doubt with a very stressful time. Like adults, teens react to stress in different ways: by trying to withdraw, becoming angry or depressed, acting out or attempting to get away through drugs or alcohol. Parents should help them get through adolescence while coping with authority problems.

Troubled teens often feel distanced from families and society. There may have been a disconnection between parent and child that was never solved. This would affect parents' work on coping with authority problems. They should commit to creating a strong connection with teens. Best way to connect is to be first of all his best friend. This is the best way to approach things when coping with authority problems. Connection is about being next to your teen and engaging him, not sending him off on his own.

A good way of doing it is to join your teen to the music store, let him pick out his favorite music and go home and listen to it together. You connect to him through what he loves, ideas and experiences that lift and motivate his spirit. Set aside your ego and your adult authority. Show your child respect. Although he may be disoriented, he is taking his first steps in knowing himself and finding his place in the world. Help him, guide him, and be open. This is the most effective way of coping with authority problems. If your teen is acting in ways dangerous for him and the ones around him, seek professional help.