Adolescence is a Time of Change
What parents may notice:
- Rapid physical growth, puberty.
- Self-conscious, anxiety, stronger need for privacy.
- Test limits of authority and rules.
- A desire to develop autonomy or distance from parents.
- An ability to detect inconsistencies, think about future changes, see possibilities and/or think of logical rebuttals.
- Confusion, caught between independence and dependence.
- Establish a sense of self or identity (friends, clothing, music).
*Vernon, A. (2004). Counseling Children & Adolescents. Colorado: Love Publishing Company.
How parents may be able to support children through these stages:
- Help develop communication, listening and interpersonal skills needed to relate well to others.
- Assist students in developing personal awareness and explore career and personal goals.
- Set a specific study plan to include a study time and place, and check assignments on a regular basis.
- Maintain contact with teachers regarding your adolescent's progress.
- Be flexible. Adolescents often display a range of moods and emotions.
- Establish boundaries, yet allow them to make some decisions with your supervision.
- Monitor telephone, video games and television usage.
- Know your adolescent's friends and parents.
- Speak with school counselors and administrators who can support you and your adolescent during difficult times.