Let your adolescent know that you accept and value his or her point of view. Confirmation of an adolescent's perspective has been linked to positive personality development. Parents need to understand what adolescence is like in today's society, as well as the pressures and choices adolescents face. In order to solve family problems, it is important to be able to discuss them openly. Effective communication involves both listening and speaking.
Good listeners show an interest in what the other person is saying.
Consider the following guidelines, and how you might use them to improve your family communication skills. Draw a mental picture of what the other person is saying Ask questions to help you complete the picture in your mind. This will let the other person know that you are taking an interest in his or her topic. Take the role of the student, so that your adolescent becomes the teacher. Stay focused on the other person Do not use this time to interrupt with one of your own stories.