What is considered to be normal behavior in teens?It isn’t always easy to deal with teen behavior. No matter how excellent the communication between you and your children is, you are sure to run into barriers when parenting teens. Teens are known for exhibiting behavioral issues. Learning what is considered normal and what should be a sign that professional intervention is needed is an important step. Some of what is deemed normal behavior for teens include the following.
- Neglecting his schoolwork or forgetting to finish his homework and other assignments.
- Being argumentative over almost anything he disagrees with.
- Being detached from the rest of the family and wanting to spend more time alone.
- Emotional fluctuations and being moody.
Challenges and behavioral problems in teensWhen teen behaviors worsen, it can often be a gradual process that you don’t recognize until things reach a tipping point. Some of these behaviors could include the following.
- Withdrawing from family, friends, and things he once enjoyed participating in.
- Increasing reliance on electronic devices and social media.
- Signs of alcohol use and abuse.
- Anger, outbursts, and even aggressive behavior.
- Lies, deception and similar behavior hide what they have been up to or participating in.
- Drastic appearance changes.
- Sexual activity, often taking a risky approach to it.
When is the right time to get help?Parents can find themselves hesitating to reach for outside help with their struggling teens. The reasons are often personal, but for the most part, it relates to not wanting others to interfere in the dynamics of their family. When we feel that our family is in crisis, it can feel almost like we need to circle the wagons. Just when should parents of troubled teens reach out for help?
- If life at home has become almost unbearable for everyone in the family.
- Perhaps aggressive behavior has become something you now deal with.
- Your teen is staying out past curfew repeatedly or perhaps running away for days at a time.
- Having trouble with law enforcement for various reasons that could include theft, property damage, and drug use.