Adolescence is the transitional stage of physical and mental human development that occurs between childhood and adulthood.
This progression involves pubertal, social, and psychological changes that shape children into adults.
During this time, adolescents are experiencing strong cognitive and physical changes.
For the first time, they may start to view their friends and peer groups as more important and influential than their parents.
These feelings and actions oftentimes lead to deviant behavior.
Teenagers may be subject to peer pressure, including the desire to have sex, consume alcoholic beverages, experiment with drugs, and defy parental and authority figures.
The teenage years are a time of profound change and development in a young person's life.
Sometimes overwhelmed with decisions, teens make choices that are representative of their needs and desires at that very moment, not looking at the future consequences of their actions.
They possess a mind-set that convinces them to think about today, and not tomorrow.
This leads teens to take chances that most adults will not risk.
Many teenagers become troubled because they do not look far enough ahead to factor in the possible consequences of their actions.
Teach your children very early what choices are up to them to make and which you will direct.
Make certain they know how to weigh consequences.
Discussing such matters with adolescents is not easy, as many teens are oftentimes not willing to have serious conversations with their parents.
Reiterate that they can feel comfortable discussing issues with you, but will inevitably need to take responsibility for their decisions.
Plan family meetings to talk about goals and responsibilities, and act as a constant role model and advisor to your teenager.
Make them aware that you will do whatever it takes to be an active, positive figure in their lives.
When problems worsen, as they sometimes do, and can not be treated in the home, some parents seek assistance from medical professionals.
Parents of troubled teens can get their child and themselves, if necessary, into therapy.
Other forms of treatment are rehabilitation, boarding schools, boot camps, and other outdoor wilderness programs.
It is important to try different resources in treatment.
While a specific form of treatment may work for one, it could possibly not work for another.
The most important point is to remain a caring and concerned parent.
This period in an adolescent's life is surrounded by an abundance of pending decisions, and is a time of serious molding for adulthood.
Make sure as a parent, you remain focused on helping your child with their problems, and support them in their transition into adulthood.