Teen
Parent-
Interactions
Parent-Teen Relationships
Autonomy
Although teens may feel ready to live their own lives, they still need positive connections with their parents. It may not seem so, but parents are still providing great influence with their teens. Simple actions can make a big difference in our interactions with teenagers. Expressions of warmth can make more of an impact than we realize.
What parents need to know about building positive relationships with teens....
Parental Warmth:
Expressing love, affection, caring, and appreciation
Connection
Ways to show Warmth:
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Smile!
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Give the teen your complete attention
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State what you appreciate or admire about them
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"I like the way you help other people"
Notice when one moves into negative connections such as withdrawal of warmth or harshness
These attitudes can create feelings of:
rejection, coldness,
defensiveness, self-protection,
invalidation
Rejection:
hostility, harsh, critical, disapproving,
irritable