Talking to Your Adolescent or Teen About Problems
Although communicating with your teen can be hard at times, it is important to keep making the effort. This is especially important when your child is struggling or acting in ways that worry you.
When attempting to talk with your teen about something that may be sensitive, schedule a "date" in a private and quiet place. During this conversation, focus on these tips to help you support open communication.
- Listen carefully. Reduce distractions. Turn off radios, TVs, phones, and other noisy devices. Don't try to do other things while you are listening.
- Talk honestly about specific situations. This includes how certain actions affect other people.
- Discuss how you will respond to concerning choices and actions. Also discuss how you will encourage and support responsible choices.
- Brainstorm ways to deal with a problem and how to choose a solution.
- If your teen's current friends often get into trouble, encourage your child to build relationships with peers who support positive choices. Encourage your teen to join a school club, sports team, or church group to meet new friends.
- Help your teen make plans for long vacations from school. This includes plans for the summer months. Focus on productive activities, such as youth programs, camps, volunteer programs, or possible jobs.
Credits
Current as of: April 1, 2026
Author:
WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: April 1, 2026
Author:
WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.