As parents, there are some ways to help facilitate good communication with your teenagers. I am suggesting three.
- When you have something in particular that you want to talk about, limit the time and stick to the subject. We’ve all been involved in conversations where the other person monopolizes the entire conversation for unlimited time. When that happens, communication comes to a screeching halt.
- Think about what it is you want to communicate and be clear about what it is you want from your teenager. This works much more effectively than the nagging and arguing model most parents implement regularly.
- Be respectful, courteous and calm. Sometimes the people we love tend to bring out the worst communication patterns in us. Treat your teenager in a loving manner. The opposite treatment; being disrespectful, rude, tense and anxious are sure to shut down communication.
I personally am guilty of violating all three, but when I do follow these guidelines, the groundwork is laid for healthier communication.
Marlayne Whitlock, M.A.
mwhitlock@ GROWcounseling.com
