Teens are busyestablishing an identity, trying to fit in, coping with all the stresses oflife while feeling incredibly self-conscious and uncertain of themselves. Outside forces play an increasingly dramatic role in a teenager's life. Itis developmentally appropriate for adolescents to focus more on the outsideworld of friends, teachers, coaches and love interests. Annoying conduct may be an adolescent's way of establishing anidentity separate and apart from parents. Other behavior, however, may signify a teen ishaving underlying worries and difficulties which need to be identified andaddressed.
Tips Keep eyes and ears open.
Speak to other parents. Keep communication lines open with kids. Know your child's friends, activities and interests. Read as much as you can. Realize you can make it happen.