Are you going crazy trying to figure out how to discipline teens? Being parents of young teenagers is not a simple task. Adolescence is the age of transition when a child gradually transforms from being a child to an adult.
This is also the time when they attain puberty which is why there are some behavioral changes that come about in them. This is also the age when children go through a lot of challenges and face an inner conflict. This sudden change is paradoxical for them and they do not understand what they really want.
On one hand they refuse to be treated like children anymore and on the other hand they are not as mature and independent as adults and feel they cannot be adults right now. Being a parent you must understand this phase of stubbornness and rebelliousness. You may be worried about how to discipline teens but do not get hysterical with them.
This is the phase when they need your support and understanding. This is also the phase when teenagers go astray if they mix with the wrong kind of people. Thus, it is up to the parents to guide their teens and provide them boundaries.
Read on to find more on how to discipline teens.
Establish Some Basic Ground Rules:
If you want to be a responsible parent you should establish certain rules which your teenager must abide by. Adolescents need these boundaries so as to understand what they can do and what they cannot. You must set these boundaries and make sure your children do not cross them ever. Do not be too strict with them so as to suffocate them.Allow them to do what they want but within the boundary. Involving the children during rule establishment may be helpful.
Give Punishments For Breaking Rules:
It is not unlikely for your teenager to misbehave. However, you must find ways to tell them that if they do anything bad or cross their limits they will have to face the consequences of their action. For instance, you may confiscate their cell phone or not allow them to access the internet.
They might throw tantrums in the beginning but eventually they will keep a check on their behavior. You as a parent, must also be consistent with disciplining. Do not enforce rules as and when you feel like. Rules must be followed every day.
Discuss Issues With Your Teen:
If you have been wondering how to discipline teens, you must remember that one of the most important things is to engage your child in a conversation with you. Stop lecturing them. They will not even bother to listen. Teach your child how to take decisions in life by talking to them and telling them about your own experiences.
You have to present yourself as being approachable so that your teen opens up to you. Keep in mind that, if you want to keep track of the activities of your teens and monitor them you have to coerce them into revealing everything they do to you.
Give freedom, but not absolute freedom: It is natural for teenagers to seek a certain amount of independence at this stage. Give them freedom but that freedom should come with certain limitations.
Avoid Negative Remarks:
Never criticize your teenage son or daughter, more so in public or in front of friends or family. It leaves a negative impression on their minds. Criticism should be constructive and should help the child to understand his or her mistakes and mend his or her way .