The early teenage years of both boys and girls can be difficult for everyone concerned. With mood swings, hormonal changes, and a desire for independence, things can become tense. But it doesn’t have to be that way. While some amount of “butting heads” and power struggling is perhaps inevitable, things can always be improved. For teenage boys in particular, the most serious difficulty can often be communication. By trying to empathize with our children and their changes, we can stay relaxed, helpful, and of genuine benefit. Not only are we likely to reduce their stress but also our own. Try to stay patient with both yourself and them. Do not expect things to be perfect or flawless but work in small steps towards making things manageable. With a bit of effort and understanding, you can support your teenager and avoid unnecessary hassle. Communicate It is perhaps particularly difficult for teenage boys to communicate their feelings. They are often encouraged from an early age to … [Read more...]