Let’s be honest, it is not easy to deal with a teenager, because his emotional changes can drive anyone crazy. For example, one day he will talk too much, but the other day he will only say monosyllables. Or maybe today he gives hugs all the time, but tomorrow he will not even want to be touched because he will say he is already big for those things. It may be a hard and continuous battle with him, but is your child, despite his “rejection”, he needs your support and love. This does not mean that you will overprotect him and will not let him live his own experiences. On the contrary, the idea is that you let him be, but always keeping an eye on him, since he may need your help at some point.

So, how can I positively deal with my little one? Psychologist Antonella Galli gives you the following recommendations:

• Do not prohibit him from going out with his friends. The relationship with other teenagers his age will develop his social aspect. You should only put rules and limits, which at the beginning he will reject – it is normal – but you have to negotiate with him, without losing authority.
• Patience and communication. They are the key for you and your child to successfully pass this stage. Keep in mind that your child is looking for his identity and that motivates him to evade your rules. Dialogue. Allow your child to freely express his feelings and listen to him.
• Speak well of your child. Sometimes parents meet each other and begin to reveal certain things about their children, such as that they do not make their beds, they are messy, they ask for money all the time … do not do that. What will others think about your child if even his own parents criticize him? Would you like your child to say everything he knows about you?

Lic. Antonella Galli
Psychologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma