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Teenage years have the reputation of being highly emotional anc complicated. During such a rocky time frame it isn’t unusual for teenagers to want distance or stray away from the previous connections they have had with their parents. This time frame can seem nearly impossible for parents.
Teenagers are more likely to be open and honest to their parents if their parents are more likely to listen. As simply as it can be put, most people do not like to be judged and neither will a teenager. Having the ability to accept a teens honesty is a show of trust and can and usually will lead to open conversations about what is happening in their lives.
Being a teenager means that for the first time they are dealing with emotions. Paired with the first real encounters with socializing it becomes highly stressful and often a time where guidance is needed. Having a parent who listens without passing judgment can be the difference in a relationship that blossoms and one that results in lying and seeking out advice from others.
Allowing your teen to be open is step one. Being open with your teen is step two. Share stories that may have a similar patter to their lives or experiences. Having someone who has been through what they are going through will make them more comfortable listening to advice you give also it will make it easier for the application of such advice.
Above all make sure to educate your teen. The more educated a person is (teen or otherwise) the more likely they will be to make positive decisions.
