Is Your Teenager Normal?

As normal is difficult to define, it is important to ask if you and your teenager are treating one another appropriately. Your teenager’s behavior may be different then it has been in the past that may be normal. Teenagers are growing physically and mentally.

They are attempting to become independent. While gaining independence can be exhilarating it is also scaring. Their growth is as frustrating to them as it is to you. It may help you to view your growing child as a two year old. This is not to say they are two years of age however the developmental challenges are the same.

You may find your patience increases when you don’t view their behavior as intentional but rather as part of their development. Stating that their behavior is related to development is not excusing their behavior. Just as they needed guidance when they were younger, so do they need guidance and consequences for not following the rules.

IS IT TIME FOR A THERAPIST?

When in doubt call a therapist and schedule an appointment. A therapist can assist you in determining if your teenager’s problems require additional interventions. The therapist may teach you some interventions so you can maintain your sanity. The following list contains some signs that may indicate that it is time to see a therapist.

Sadness or crying
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
Thoughts of suicide
Cutting on self
Not taking showers or brushing teeth.
Loss of self-confidence or self-worth
Violent outbursts
Not being able to sleep, waking early and not being able to go back to sleep
Poor concentration
Difficulty remembering
Startles easily
Little interest in activities they use to find happiness in doing
Change in school grades (usually a decline)