Teenagers go through a series of changes that can be challenging for them and their parents. Behavioral issues are common during the adolescent years. However, some problems may need the assistance of a mental health professional.
If you're experiencing extreme problems with your child's behavior then you may find valuable information in this post. We discuss what these issues are, their causes, and how to help your teen overcome them.
What Are Behavioral Issues in Teenagers?
Some parents believe that disobedient children automatically have behavioral problems. But this issue is much deeper. Studies show that 20% of children in the U.S. aged between 3 and 17 have some form of mental or behavioral disorder.
Defiant teens who are disrespectful towards people around them, and cause harm to others are classified as those who have issues with behavior.
What Causes Behavioral Issues in Teenagers?
Many factors can cause a change in behavior in teenagers and the most common is hormonal changes. Puberty can cause a fluctuation in hormones that lead to mood swings. Additionally, divorce, peer pressure, abuse, and lack of supervision can all contribute to negative teenage behavior
Signs Your Teenager Has Behavioral Issues
It can be difficult to determine whether your child is exhibiting typical teenage behavior or if there's a serious problem at play. You may need a mental health professional to evaluate your teen. On the other hand, here are signs to look out for.
Frequent Temper Tantrums
Temper tantrums are expected adolescent behavior but frequent outbursts can be a sign of an underlying problem. Your teen may scream and shout at you when you set boundaries and even throw objects in a fit of rage.
Feelings of Sadness
Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness that affect your teenager's everyday life can be a sign of depression. They may also feel hopeless and begin to show signs of nihilism as a result, which can affect their academic performances and their relationships.
Withdrawing from Friends and Family
You may start to notice your teen is spending less time with their friends and family. They constantly feel the need to be left alone because they don't have the energy to interact with people. This can be typical teenage behavior but to rule it out you may need to speak to your teen to find out why they're isolating themselves.
Vandalizing Property
There are teenagers who show signs of malicious behavior. Because they have deep-seated anger issues they may feel the need to destroy things around them. They'll then start to vandalize people's property or break objects around your house.
Abusing Animals
A serious warning sign is when your teenager starts to abuse animals. Experts suggest that animal abuse represents displaced hostility and can be due to neglect. This is a major sign that your teenager needs immediate treatment because they could start harming other people.
Bullying Other Children
Teenagers who have pent-up rage or exhibit violent behavior may start to tease or bully children around them. They feel the need to control others or to instill fear in them because they themselves are scared or feel lonely.
Self-Mutilation and Risky Behavior
Self-harm such as cutting their skin or burning themselves are signs of extreme emotional distress. These teens may have difficulty healthily expressing their emotions. They may also get involved in risky behavior like driving with strangers or taking drugs.
How You Can Help Your Teen Overcome Behavioral Issues
When addressing your teenager's behavior it's crucial to have an open line of communication and to remain calm and patient. Although this is a difficult situation there are ways you can help your teen overcome their behavioral issues.
Spend Time with Your Teen
Teenagers are extremely impressionable so during their adolescent years you must spend quality time with your child so you can be a positive role model to them. Spending time with your child will prevent them from hanging out with people who are bad influences on them.
During your time together, teach your teen valuable life lessons and ensure they have strong convictions. You can also build on their moral code during their teen years. Find fun ways to hang out together such as going to the movies, camping, fishing, or traveling.
Encourage Healthy Habits
It's easy for teenagers to fall into terrible habits like neglecting their hygiene or not completing their assignments on time. Encourage them to eat healthy, do exercises, and socialize with friends and family.
Minimize Screen Time
One of the major causes of mental health issues is social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. Teens may start to compare themselves to others or experience online abuse which can trigger negative behaviors.
In this case, you should minimize your child's screen time and only allow them to use their phones after they've completed their homework. Monitor the apps they use to ensure they're not engaging with posts that could affect their mental well-being.
Set Rules and Boundaries
Parents should always set realistic rules and boundaries for teenagers to follow because it gives them structure and routine. Make certain situations mandatory in your house like finishing school work on time and completing chores.
Be Calm and Patient With Them
There are going to be times when you and your teenager begin to argue. Try to stay calm in these situations. Spanking your child or screaming and shouting can only further perpetuate their behavior and it can cause anxiety disorders.
If the conversation gets too aggressive, suggest that your teen go to his or her room and you'll pick up the conversation when they've calmed down.
Seek Professional Help
One of the best ways to deal with a teenager who has behavioral problems is to seek professional help from mental health practitioners. Troubled teenagers may need someone to assist them with the proper treatment and care.
You can also opt for family therapy so the lines of communication aren't misunderstood. Therapy can provide you and your teenager a chance to speak openly in a controlled and safe environment.
Final Thoughts
Adolescents need a supportive environment where they can be themselves when it comes to their mental health issues.
At Liahona Academy, we have a residential treatment center where we rehabilitate troubled teens. We also provide residential programs for different problems.
Take a look at all the services we offer on our website and give us a call today so we can find practical solutions to help your troubled teen overcome their behavioral issues.
