A survival guide for living with a teenager Probably the main task of adolescents in our culture is to develop an independent identity separate from their parents. Teenagers try to establish more adult, less dependent relationships with parents, and this can cause a certain amount of normal rebellion, defiance, discontent, turmoil and restlessness.
Emotions usually run high, and mood swings are common.
Adolescent rebellion usually starts at 12 to 14 years of age. It may continue for at least two years, but it is not uncommon for this stage to last four to six years. Every child, every parent and every family unit is different, but some general guidelines can help you help your teenager during this period of transition. 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's an adult. Treat her how you would like her to treat you when she's an adult.