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substance abuse in your family > caregivers > coping with kid's behavior problems > teens

BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS: TEENS

No one needs to be told how difficult adolescence can be. The radio, television, newspapers and magazines are filled with stories of challenging teens. And teens today may seem less respectful than your own children were – they may talk back more than you find acceptable, be more likely to defy the rules, and not respond as readily to limit setting. While there may be no cure for this (and hitting them is probably not the best solution), feel assured that you are not alone in your frustrations.

What you can do:

Avoid assuming that the teenager is going to "turn out just like [his] parent."

Remember that all kids need positive strokes and validation, regardless of their tough exterior.

Be watchful for signs of substance abuse – know the signs and symptoms of abuse, and be ready to step in quickly. Be particularly watchful around periods of transition – changing schools, moving, new activities. Transition translates into vulnerability for many at-risk youngsters.

Help the child understand that what they think everyone is doing may just be bragging, and not reality.