(University Hospital, 2023)
Adolescence is a time of change:
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Physically
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Socially
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Psychologically
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Intellectually
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Emotionally
Typical teenage behavior includes:
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Issues with self-esteem and identity
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Conflict with parents and authority
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Changes in appearance
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Moodiness
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Risky and impulsive behavior
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Experimentation with drugs, drinking, and anger
Developmentally, adolescents are:
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Experiencing changes in their bodies, growing and maturing
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More aware of their thoughts, feelings, and interactions with others
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More independent and impressionable
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Becoming romantically interested in others
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Learning how to manage stress, more difficult emotions, and peer conflicts
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021)
Adolescents need their parents to communicate and collaborate with them effectively, so they remain a positive support in their lives. During this time, parenting can be an adjustment as teens still need:
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Support
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Validation
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Empathy
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Expectations
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Rules
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Boundaries