There is No Substitute for Communicating With Your Teen
Written by Craig Rogers, Posted on , in Section Teens & Tweens
Parents and teenagers seem to spend more time talking at one another than to one another. But with a bit of give and take, a lot of patience, and a good amount of respect, there is no substitute for communicating with each other. Although kids don't have the same level of knowledge, wisdom or experience as most adults, they have basically the same logical tools and can see through logical misconceptions in the sensible side of a conversation. So, when mother or father uses power assertive statements that are not based on logic, like "because I said so", this approach does not work.
Power Assertive Statements Do Not Work in Communication
Research shows that parents and adolescents, also define issues in a different light. An example of this would be that a mother or father may see their child's messy room as a moral issue and the kid may see it as a matter of choice. Either way, what can families do to communicate better?
Teenagers Can Be Shockingly Easy to Talk With
Well, have a conversation that involves at least two people, and you're not lecturing. Don't put your child on the defense by attacking. If you are really interested in communicating, show respect for your child's opinions. Young people can be shockingly easy to talk with if their parents can show respect by listening to their adolescent's point of view. Also, be yourself; young people know when the adults are trying to talk like a kid. Keep your point short and simple to keep from lecturing. Then, take advantage of the moment, where spontaneity leads the conversation in the car or at home late at night and some of the most rewarding moments can be experienced.
