Adolescence is a difficult phase for parents. Parents may find it difficult to acknowledge the fact that their child who was dependent on them, suddenly wants to be left alone or wants to be with his friends.
On the other hand, parents fail to realize that, children also find this phase difficult.
They have to tackle physical, emotional and moral alterations. It is a phase of confusion, where sometimes they are treated like adults, and sometimes they are treated like kids.
Adolescent Behavior Problems
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a fairly common adolescent problem.
- It is typified by reduced attention span and concentration, which greatly influences their academic accomplishment.
- Furthermore, he may show hyperactivity, and various impulsive behaviors. They tend to be aggressive and may engage in anti-social behaviors.
- Adolescent Depression
- Bouts of depression among adolescents are relatively normal, but, if it continues for prolonged intervals of time, it could become a huge problem.
- It manifests as: fatigue and low levels of energy, no interaction with peers, indifference, no interest in activities that they loved before, insomnia, restlessness, crying, etc.
- Oppositional Defiance Disorder
- Oppositional Defiance Disorder is characterized by disobedience, insolence and opposition towards the world in general. They blame others for the way they behave. They can not control their anger, are argumentative, difficult to deal with, and pessimistic.
- Adolescent Eating Behavior/Disorders
- Eating disorders is extremely common amongst teenagers, more than ever, with girls. They indulge in fast foods which makes them obese. Conversely, they do not eat well and become anorexic. Bulimia is a disorder where one indulges in binge eating, then feels guilty and induces vomiting.
Adolescent Behavior Management
- If you detect any adolescent behavior problem in your child, it is important to first talk to him, and understand what is troubling him. Consult a psychologist / psychiatrist / mental health practitioner. He will help the teenager rise above the problem. Importantly, you must be very patient, understanding and must support your child during these times.