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Teen Behavior: What’s Worrisome, What’s Not?

Does it seem as if you and your teenager live in different worlds? Many parents find it hard to interpret their teens’ behavior. Is your child just acting like a typical teen, or do they need your help?

“Typical” Teen Behavior

Every teenager is different and has a unique personality. But experts say that many adolescents:

• Struggle with their identity — for instance, obsessing over their appearance
• Feel awkward about their changing bodies
• Switch between being overconfident and having poor self-esteem
• Follow their friends’ example in clothing and activities
• Find fault with their parents
• Test parental rules and limits
• Revert to childish behavior, such as slamming doors and crying

Signs that Raise Concern

However, the following teen behaviors should raise a red flag with parents:

• An extreme change in school performance
• Signs of alcohol or drug abuse, including frequent red-rimmed eyes or the presence of drug supplies
• An inability to perform homework, household chores or other activities
• Numerous complaints of illness — teens who frequently complain of headaches and other symptoms when there is no physical cause may be more likely to suffer from depression later in life
• Frequent angry outbursts or extreme opposition to authority
• Violent threats or behavior
• Truancy, theft, fire-setting or vandalism
• Fear of becoming obese even though body weight is normal
• Preoccupation with anti-social music if accompanied by disturbing behavior changes
• Signs of depression, including prolonged sad mood, changes in appetite and thoughts of death

If you notice any of these behaviors in your teen, seek professional help. See below for information about Excela Health’s behavioral health services.

Preventing Harm

You can protect your child from some avoidable dangers. Teens with access to guns, alcohol, tobacco and other drugs at home are more likely to use illegal substances and commit violent acts than those without such access.

Also, spend time with your kids. Research shows that teens with strong family ties engage in fewer risky behaviors than teens who feel unconnected to their families.