The main task of adolescents in our culture is to become psychologically emancipated from their parents. Before the teenager can develop a new, adult relationship with his parents, he must cast aside the dependent relationship of childhood and gain control of his life. This process is characterized by a certain amount of normal rebellion, defiance, discontent, turmoil, restlessness, and ambivalence.
Emotions usually run high, and mood swings are common.
Adolescent rebellion usually starts at 12 to 14 years of age. The following guidelines may help you and your teenager through this difficult period. Treat your teenager as an adult friend. By the time your child is 12 years old, start working on developing the kind of relationship you would like to have with her when she is an adult. Treat her the way you would like her to treat you when she is grown up.