Adolescents must progress from childhood dependency to adult independence from being subject to the authority and control of parents to exercising personal autonomy and self control. Separating from parents and establishing one's individuality is a normal and necessary step in personal development. Separating is stressful because it involves leaving behind a relatively stable way of being and accepting a new self-image. Teens often look for the answers to these questions by challenging authority and testing rules. Parents can help by encouraging their teens to assume increasing responsibility for their choices and actions, while continuing to provide appropriate supervision and guidance.
Teens also have to cope with physical growth and change.
Teens are usually very anxious and sensitive about their physical appearance. They worry, tremendously about their height, weight, skin and hair. Acne can be a real plague for many teenagers. It is important that parents offer not only reassurance but also practical help with physical problems, for example, by getting medical attention for their teens when it's needed. Parents can also help teens accept themselves by encouraging them to find activities and interests that will enrich their lives and that don't require a perfect body.