Teen Behavior: Strategies for Dealing with Teen Rebellion

Rebellious teen behavior can be disruptive to the entire family. Teenagers desire independence. They want to spend much less time with their families and more time with friends. They also want the power to make important decisions. Teenagers may disobey, challenge their parents, and breaks household rules.

This period of rebellion is a normal part of teen behavior and adolescent development. Susan Duffy, M.A., in her article "Teen Rebellion and Parental Responses", explains that teen rebellion is the result of a teenager's search for identity, turmoil, and parental frustrations.

History of Teen Rebellion

Rebellion was a common component of teen behavior in times past. In the 1950’s, teenagers rejected moral values and parental styling (think Rebel Without a Cause). Teens have historically rebelled against social injustices like anti-war and civil rights causes, sexual liberation, women's-lib, and "the establishment" in general.

Today, influences like excessive exposure to explicit materials in the digital age, peer pressure, and a prevalence of family issues like divorce, addiction, and stepfamilies may lead to an increase in rebellion. Today's teen rebellion may come in the form of drugs and alcohol, risky behavior, school failure, violence, running away, problems with law enforcement, marriage, and pregnancy. Modern teens are now rebelling at earlier ages, possibly because of early experiences with major issues as they transition to adulthood.

Tips for Dealing with Teen Rebellion

While rebellious teen behavior is common, there is no need to throw your hands up in despair. Here are some practical tips you can use:

• It is very important to hold teens accountable for their actions. This means creating appropriate positive and negative consequence of consequences for behavior and being consistent with their delivery. Be clear and simple with expectations and rules and always follow through.
• Monitor your teen's activities strategically. Know exactly where your teen is going and get all details. However, there should be a balance between autonomy and supervision. Increasing amounts of freedom should be earned gradually. Express concern and caring with respect to your child's safety rather than appearing controlling.
• Encourage pro-social teen behavior. Get your child involved with proactive youth activities. Praise pro-social behavior and discourage your teen from associating with rebellious peers. Encourage children to use their talents and be of service to others.
• Be aware that you are a role model. Your teenager is influenced by both your words and your actions. Be consistent with all agreements. If there are personal issues you are facing, get help for them.

It is normal for teens to assert their independence and test limits. The goal is to be understanding of adolescent development and at the same time help your teenager understand that there is clear connection between their actions and consequences. Responding by being consistent, calm, encouraging, and reasonable will help maintain trust and respect.