Emily Chan
Of course, all teenagers are different, and some thirteen-year-olds may already be highly self-aware while others are not.
Here’s what it looks like when a teen is able to show an understanding of the self and their feelings. They will say things like, “Hey, mom, I know I just yelled at you, and it’s really because I feel bad about my skin breaking out, and I’m sorry.”
However, most of the time, younger teens don’t know how to connect the dots to why they’re behaving in a certain manner, so they can’t take accountability for their actions and continue to “act out.”
It’s difficult for many parents not to take it personally when their teenager snaps at them. But as a parent, keep in mind that the changes they’re going through are affecting their daily lives and, therefore, their behaviors and attitudes.
As they get older, their brain will keep developing, and eventually, they’ll reach a point where reflecting and apologizing are easier for them.
To help them get there, you can express how you would like them to communicate with you. Say things like, “This is really the point where I would want you to say, ‘hey mom, I’m sorry I messed up, and I’m going to try harder next time.'”
So hang in there! Your teen will come back around to you. Right now, they’re just going through a particularly rough patch.
@dr.luciehemmen Parenting younger teens is hard! Hang in there, it’s gets better as they mature. #parenting #parentingtweensandteens
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