Changes and problems faced by Adolescents

HOW TO DEAL WITH COMMON PROBLEMS OF ADOLESCENCE...

Adolescence is not an easy time for kids or parents. The only way to deal with needs and problems at this age is to know about them and be ready to face them. Here is our list of the most common changes, problems and solutions that adolescents have to deal with.

PHYSICAL CHANGES

Physical changes happen due to change in the teenager's hormone levels.

• Development of full breasts in girls can be awkward in the beginning. Girls may start to feel conscious about their figure.
• Change of voice and appearance of facial hair in boys is perhaps the most prominent change that takes place during adolescence. 
• Acne is one of the major problems.
• The growth of pubic hair in girls and boys.

SOLUTION:

The best way you can do to help your teenager get through the stage is to make them aware of these changes.

• Explain that it is normal for the body to change as every teenager goes through it...!
• Help them adapt to these changes- acknowledge the change and help them accept it .
• Enable them to stay healthy and fit through a nutritious diet and exercise.
  

EMOTIONAL CHANGES AND PROBLEMS

Hormones affect teenagers just not physically but also emotionally.

• Adolescence is the age between adulthood and childhood.Teenagers are often confused about their role and are torn between their responsibilities as growing adults and their desires as children. 
• They tend to feel overly emotional( blame it on hormones). Just about anything and everything can make them happy , exited, mad or angry.
• Adolescent girls are vulnerable to crying.
• Mood swings are common among teenage boys and girls.
• Feelings of inferiority or superiority may rise at this time.

SOLUTION:

Puberty can be an emotional roller-coaster ride. And it is normal. Here is how can help your kid deal with these emotional problems of adolescence.

• Assist them to take care of themselves. Tell your teenagers that it is okay to feel the way they are feeling.
• Encourage them to exercise as physical activity helps keep their good feelings and happiness levels up.
• Let them talk. Listen to them without judging and avoid giving them advice when they are not ready for it.
• Share your experiences of puberty or let them talk to an older sibling who has gone through the same.
  

BEHAVIORAL CHANGES

Overwhelming emotions can lead to impulsive behavior, which can be harmful to your child as well as others. Mostly, it is just teen behavior that will last as long their adolescence.

• Adolescence is the time when kids develop and exercise their independence. This can give rise to questioning and being argumentative or being being stubborn i.e. standing up for what they believe is right.
• As a part of their new - found independence, adolescents may also want to try new things and take risks, resulting in careless behavior. 
• Sometimes , peer pressure and the need to 'fit in' can make them behave in a certain way or develop certain habits that are hard to break.
• The most troubling behavior is perhaps your teen hanging out with problem kids and adapting to a dangerous lifestyle.
• Lying is one of the common teen behavioral issues. Teens may lie to avoid confrontation with parents or out of fear.

SOLUTION:

• Behavioral problems in adolescence can make life difficult for parents. But remember that it is a passing phase, and is entirely normal.
• Gaining your child's trust is important if you want to help him with behavioral issues. Talk to them and listen to what they have to say. Do not judge or criticize them, as it could worsen their behavior.
• Let them know that you love them just as they are. Encourage them to be true to themselves and not take on a personality just to please others. 
• You will have to intervene if you see them falling into bad company.Remember that adolescents are sensitive and may not take criticism well.
  

You may have been a teenager yourself. But once you become a parent to a teen, you seem clueless. Think about it- your adolescent is at an age that you have already been through. Be empathetic and try to understand what your child is going through. That makes dealing with their problems easier. 

Do you have any tips on how to deal with adolescence problems? Tell me about in comment section.